Gods and Monsters (1998)

Directed by Bill Condon. Starring Ian McKellen, Brendan Fraser, Lynn Redgrave, Jack Plotnick, Lolita Davidovich, David Dukes, Rosalind Ayres, Jack Betts, Matt McKenzie, Kevin J. O’Connor. [R]

Intriguing, fictionalized account of the final days in the life of James Whale (homosexual Hollywood director responsible for, among others, the early Frankenstein pictures), played out primarily through lonely reminiscences of his past tragedies and triumphs, as well as his relationship with his new gardener (Fraser), which at first seems to be one of irascible (even perverse) flirtation but then becomes an almost father/son bond (or Frankenstein/Monster…). Condon’s dreamy and sentimental path is appropriate at times, especially towards the end, but it also negates the opportunity for greater depth and understanding for its fascinating subject. McKellen is excellent in what feels like a tailor-made role; Fraser and Redgrave (as his unfiltered, long-suffering housemaid) are nearly his match. The screenplay, written also by Condon and adapted from Christopher Bram’s “Father of Frankenstein,” won an Academy Award.

80/100