The Frankenstein Complex takes a historical as well as a creative perspective, with a mix of fascinating scenes behind the camera, film clips, and dozens of interviews with all the big names in the industry. In addition to the many wonderful anecdotes, the film also offers a wealth of beautiful test material, while along the way showing how the art of filmmaking has changed over the years. An affectionate ode to monster makers throughout history.
Practical Effects
Rare test footage of iconic creatures in various stages of undress.
Acting
Guillermo del Toro delivering passionate monologues about latex.
Production
Candid set photos you've definitely never seen before.
Director
Gilles Penso
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
The title references James Whale's 1931 Frankenstein, but the doc barely touches it—opting instead for deep cuts like The Thing and Predator.
Released in 2015, the film captures practical effects artists at their most anxious moment—right before The Force Awakens and Mad Max: Fury Road proved practical could survive.
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