Strong sequel!

"To a new world of gods and monsters!"

Successful sequel to the classic 1931 film Frankenstein is just as good as the original, if not even better.

Taking place just after the events of Frankenstein, this film again follows The Monster (Karloff) who survived the blaze in a burning windmill that supposedly killed him. He rises from the rubble to run rampage once more.

A shadowy scientist named Dr. Pretorius (Thesiger) is determined to make a mate for the monster, and teach him how to speak. Pretorius blackmails Dr. Henry Frankenstein (Clive), forcing him back into the laboratory to revive another corpse - this time a woman - that will become The Monster's partner.

This remarkable sequel has been regarded as better than the original, and I tend to agree. Bride of Frankenstein reunites most of the original cast, including Karloff and Clive among others.

Director James Whale also returns to the director's chair to craft this quality classic horror movie. Karloff's portrayal is perfect. He makes a tragic monster who is made a lot closer to the source material. Instead of killing everything in his path he acknowledges the kindness of others who wish to help, and his halting words of dialogue are haunting.

Colin Clive returns to the role that he made back in 1931, and still retains the character's intrigue as well as his determination.

Special effects and make-up look amazing considering that it's a film made over 70 years ago.

Overall, Bride of Frankenstein is classic horror balanced out with comic relief. It has dated badly, but the brilliance still shines through and makes for a very historic 75 minutes of viewing.

8/10