In Diablo Cody's latest film, Lisa Frankenstein, she takes us on a wild and quirky journey that combines horror, comedy, and romance. With a nod to the 80s, this movie aims to entertain young audiences with its graveyard humor and a touch of gore, all wrapped up in a retro-inspired package. However, while the film has its moments of hilarity and some clever lines, it falls short in terms of direction and narrative momentum.
Lisa Frankenstein revolves around the story of Lisa Swallows, a maladjusted teen played by Kathryn Newton, who finds solace and purpose when she bonds with a reanimated corpse, the Creature portrayed by Cole Sprouse. The plot kicks off with Lisa witnessing a brutal murder, leaving her shaken and resistant to her father's new marriage. Feeling like an outsider at school, Lisa's only moment of hope comes when her crush, Michael Trent, shows interest in her dark poetry. But an ill-fated night at a party leads her to seek refuge in a cemetery, where she unknowingly summons the Creature.
As the movie progresses, Lisa discovers the identity of the Creature and decides to keep him hidden in her closet, giving him a makeover and unleashing a wave of mayhem. While the initial premise of the film is intriguing, Cody struggles to develop it beyond a series of increasingly over-the-top comedic moments, resulting in a sense of desperation.
One of the film's key flaws lies in the lack of character development, particularly when it comes to Lisa's transformation and her romantic connection with the Creature. Instead of providing insight into Lisa's internal struggles and emotions, we are only presented with a visual representation of her goth-inspired persona. This shift from a misfit teen to a rebellious outsider feels forced and fails to engage viewers on a deeper level.
Lisa Frankenstein attempts to be a celebration of embracing one's uniqueness and defying societal norms, but it falls short of being truly subversive. The comedy often relies on easy laughs from 80s nostalgia, such as Lisa singing REO Speedwagon's 'Can't Fight This Feeling' while the Creature accompanies her on the piano. While these moments may bring a smile to your face, they lack originality and substance.
Despite its flaws, Lisa Frankenstein does boast a talented cast. Kathryn Newton, Cole Sprouse, and Liza Soberano deliver enjoyable performances that elevate the film above its messy execution. However, Carla Gugino's portrayal of Janet, Lisa's stepmother, feels out of place and lacks the comedic timing needed for the role.
In the end, Lisa Frankenstein serves as a reminder that not all 80s-inspired horror comedies can capture the magic of beloved classics like Ghostbusters or Gremlins. While the film has its moments of humor and offers a nostalgic trip down memory lane with its synth-pop soundtrack and vibrant colors, it falls short in terms of direction and storytelling. Ultimately, Lisa Frankenstein is an amusing diversion, but it fails to leave a lasting impression.
