Check out the resurrection of a classic monster in Universal Pictures: Frankenstein #1 by Image Comics!

UNIVERSAL MONSTERS: FRANKENSTEIN #1

Writer: Michael Walsh
Artist: Michael Walsh
Colorist: Toni Marie Griffen
Publisher: Image Comics
Cover Price: $4.99
Release Date: August 28th, 2024

Previously in Universal Frankenstein: This comic is based on a horror film from Universal Pictures, which in turn is based on the 1818 Mary Shelley novel Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus. Often referred to as the first science fiction novel, it tells the story of a genius who manages to bring to life a terrifying monster.

THE HANDS OF A FATHER

Universal Monsters: Frankenstein #1 starts with a kid visiting his father at a cemetery when he suddenly hears a noise. He sees Dr. Frankenstein and his assistant Fritz stealing his father’s body. The kid follows them to their laboratory and witnesses the experiment that brings the monster to life and some of the fallout from creating such a creature. The kid finds the monster and realizes that the beast is using his father’s hands, which seem to recognize the boy. The boy then tries to kill Dr. Frankenstein, but Fritz stops him before he can do anything.

THE BOOK IS ALWAYS BETTER

I like the original novel of Frankenstein, and I am not necessarily enthused by some of the other interpretations of the story. It has been years since I have seen the Universal Studios movie, but I remember thinking it was neat, though not as exciting as the book. So when I picked up Universal Monsters: Frankenstein #1, I wasn’t sure if I would enjoy it. Perhaps because I didn’t have definitive expectations, I found myself enjoying the book. The relationship between the boy and the situation of seeing someone steal his father’s body, which hardens his heart enough to commit murder, is terrifying. As a story, Frankenstein constantly explores the relationship between genius and madness, and I can see that theme explored through the child. Great conceptual work here.

The art, however, is a little odd for me. I think the style is designed to emulate the movie; in that sense, it does a good job. It has a few spooky panels, and the coloring and shading are excellent. But I wasn’t vibing with the art, and that is probably just a personal preference.

BOTTOM LINE: WORTH A READ

This is a nuanced interpretation of the classic tale, and I think if you like horror comics or even classic monsters, it is worth picking up. I admit I was on the fence about it, but I had an enjoyable experience with the book overall. Universal Monsters: Frankenstein #1 gets a solid 4 out of 5 stars, and I’ll likely follow the series as well.

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