Let’s face it: Frankenstein’s Monster won’t stay dead—and honestly, that’s a gift. Mary Shelley’s 1818 novel didn’t just create a literary icon; it ignited a cinematic legacy that’s been rebooted, reimagined, and electrified for over a century. Whether you’re a die-hard horror fan, a lover of comedy, or just someone who enjoys a monster mash, there’s a Frankenstein movie for you. Pop some corn and be prepared for a shockingly great countdown of the 10 greatest Frankenstein movies of all time—in reverse because half the fun is suspense.
10. Frankenweenie (2012)
Tim Burton’s stop-motion tribute to old-school horror is an ideal introduction for kids. When Sparky, the dog of young Victor Frankenstein, passes away, science—and a lightning bolt—bring him back, with predictably wacky consequences. Burton’s gothic aesthetic, combined with an all-star cast that includes Catherine O’Hara and Winona Ryder, makes it essential viewing for monster fans of every age.
9. Abbott and Costello Meet Frankenstein (1948)
Have your monsters served up with a side of guffaws? This Universal classic delivers that. The classic comedy team meets Frankenstein’s Monster, Dracula, and the Wolfman in a movie that is strictly slapstick fun. Though far from Shelley’s tale, it is a harmless introduction to the world of monsters for children and adults alike.
8. Frankenstein (1994) by Mary Shelley
This gothic, melodramatic retelling by Kenneth Branagh is astonishingly faithful to Shelley’s novel. Robert De Niro’s Creature is chilling and moving, although Branagh’s Victor strays just a little too far into camp. The Arctic whiteness of the snowy scenery, authentic plot surprises, and emotional resonance make this worth watching for fans.
7. The Curse of Frankenstein (1957)
Hammer Horror’s initial Frankenstein adventure is a gory, gruesome, gaudy show. Peter Cushing is viciously portrayed by Baron Frankenstein, and Christopher Lee’s Creature provokes another bout of frightful shock. Frankenstein is most brutal here, solidifying Hammer’s horror status in modern cinema.
6. Young Frankenstein (1974)
Mel Brooks’ black-and-white spoof is comedy gold. Gene Wilder’s Dr. Frederick Frankenstein inherits the late great relative’s castle, things go wild, and there is laughter. Marty Feldman’s Igor, Peter Boyle’s Monster, and the iconic “Puttin’ on the Ritz” scene make this a classic spoof thanks to great Universal horror.
5. Frankenstein (1931)
James Whale’s initial Universal film set the legend upon which all subsequent Frankenstein films would be measured. Boris Karloff’s iconic Monster, Jack Pierce’s legendary makeup, and the iconic “It’s alive!” quote are forever stamped on popular culture. Not Shelley’s novel verbatim, but it’s the way Frankenstein has become equated with Halloween.
4. Bride of Frankenstein (1935)
Supposedly better than the first one, Whale’s sequel is a gothic classic. More vivid imagery, more emotion, and Elsa Lanchester’s legendary Bride make a classic. The Monster who wants friendship, the blind man’s scene, and the Bride’s legendary design put it into the category of real film art.
3. Frankenstein Created Woman (1967)
Hammer’s brashest Frankenstein follow-up becomes a horror of experiments in soul transfer. Peter Cushing’s Baron Frankenstein brings life to a soul within his creature, and seduction, revenge, and an ugly fairy tale ensue. Hammer flair and feminist twist make one a new and charged rethinking of the tale.
2. National Theatre Live: Frankenstein (2011)
Danny Boyle’s West End theatre production, with Benedict Cumberbatch and Jonny Lee Miller playing the lead in alternate performances, offers a new take. Concentrating on the Monster, the play is highly emotional and true to Shelley’s vision. The acting is superb, and it’s a must-watch for anyone who wants a literarily faithful Frankenstein.
1. Penny Dreadful (2014-2016)
A sci-fi drama series, but Frankenstein’s Monster cannot be improved upon. Rory Kinnear’s Creature is wittily caustic, sage, and melancholy. The cinema-screen scale of the series permits an extended arc, and the visiting cast, including Billie Piper as the Bride, makes this an interesting, contemporary interpretation of Shelley’s creature.
From horror to grotesque, from comedy to spook, Frankenstein has been rebooted a thousand times on the big screen. If you hunger for classic terror, Hammer horror viciousness, or modern reinterpretations, there is a Frankenstein tale to satiate each appetite. And don’t forget: every Saturday can be Halloween if the world’s most iconic monster is in front of you.