
I'm totally pumped for "Lisa Frankenstein" ever since I saw the trailer. It's definitely one of the hot flicks to catch this February. I just have to share my personal take on why this movie is a must-see! But if you're like me and love a good Rom Com with a dash of horror, I'm sure you'll be as excited for this movie as I am.
Distinct female perspective
Can we take a moment to appreciate the unique female perspective in Mary Shelley's iconic novel, "Frankenstein"? It's such a treasure trove for literary research, especially for arguments supporting ecofeminism.
Strangely enough though, over the past century, this female perspective seems to have gotten lost in the mix in movie adaptations of "Frankenstein". Our good old Frankenstein has been typecast as a horror image, the "other" "monster". His tragic struggle to become a complete person and have offspring adds a touch of pathos.
But hold on, things take a different turn in Lisa Frankenstein. The spotlight is no longer on the created Frankenstein, but on the creator Lisa. She's busy resurrecting a corpse and breathing life back into it. And to make this life more complete, she starts dabbling with death. In an ingenious way, the story integrates the feminist concept of "women have the right to create and execute death".
And let's not forget Lisa's role as an unpopular high school student. Unlike the usual "Cinderella" narrative, she doesn't need to transform herself to find love. Can't find an ideal partner? No worries, she can create one herself! Considering how women are often subjected to the male gaze in a heteronormative society, Lisa Frankenstein's breakthrough is a breath of fresh air.

A luxury Campy style
As you can tell from the trailer, this movie set in 1989 showcases a prominent Camp aesthetic. The character's makeup and hairstyles are distinctly retro, vibrant, and unconventional. They add horror to the narrative while preserving a whimsical, fairy-tale essence.
In the same vein as "Barbie" and "Mean Girls", where female characters take center stage, shades of purple and pink are omnipresent throughout the film, infusing it with a visually feminine appeal.
However, I would argue that these hues of pink and purple represent more than just superficial or benign feminine qualities. Rather, when juxtaposed with the story's context, these colors acquire a sort of assertiveness, hinting at the rebellion and individuality of the women in the film.
This is the type of movie that piques my interest: one that takes previously gender-stereotyped symbols, dissects them, and reassembles them into new interpretations.
From a visual standpoint, I believe that Lisa Frankenstein holds this potential.

Unpredictable plot development
Set in the vibrant year of 1989, the film introduces you to an endearingly quirky high school girl who finds solace in reading novels amid the quietude of cemeteries. One stormy night, she stumbles upon a spell that brings a dashing Victorian-era gentleman back from the dead, and she takes the chance to mold him into her dream beau.
Their journey together isn't all sunshine and roses, as dangers and demises seem to tiptoe behind every gravestone. Yet often in a delightful twist, it turns out it's Lisa, our plucky heroine, who’s stirring the pot.
"Lisa Frankenstein" playfully subverts the traditional horror narrative. Unlike those that place the teenage damsels in distress, this one put the female lead in the driver's seat of mayhem. Yes, there are elements of horror, but it's far from a nightmare-inducing film like "Carrie." It's sprinkled with moments of laughter and romance that are as crucial to the film as any spooky scene.

The plot unfolds in a refreshingly nontraditional way, driven not by vengeance, but by Lisa's eccentric quest to craft her perfect companion. It's a bold nose-thumbing at conventional norms that keeps you guessing what Lisa will do next.
So, while "Lisa Frankenstein" might be classified as a genre film, it boasts a uniquely captivating storyline that sets it apart. It's a film that you wouldn't want to miss!
With all that said, I'm super excited to watch this movie. Who can resist such a blend of horror and beautiful fantasy, especially one spearheaded by a cute girl? Whether you're a Rom Com aficionado or a horror movie junkie, this one is a must-watch! Let's count down to its release!
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