Maggie Gyllenhaal is reportedly attached to direct a remake of James Whale’s iconic classic “Bride of Frankenstein” for Netflix, with her “The Dark Knight” co-star Christian Bale set to star.
Production Weekly (via World of Reel) broke the news which indicates this would mark Gyllenhaal’s second directorial effort following 2021’s psychological drama “The Lost Daughter”.
The film is reportedly set to enter production sometime early next year. It’s unclear who Bale will play – be it the doctor, the Monster or someone else. No other star has been announced at this time.
The original 1935 film was a direct sequel to 1931’s “Frankenstein” and is widely considered the better film. Elsa Lanchester starred in the dual role of Mary Shelley and the eponymous character opposite Boris Karloff as The Monster.
In the film, a chastened Henry Frankenstein attempts to abandon his plans to create life, only to be tempted and then blackmailed by his old mentor Dr. Pretorius, along with threats from the Monster, into constructing a mate for said Monster.
Attempts have been made to remake the film in recent years. Angelina Jolie’s name was floated about for the role back when Universal announced its ambitious Dark Universe plans which ultimately fell through. Filmmakers Bill Condon and John Krasinski’s names have also been linked to past iterations.
The original “Bride of Frankenstein” is currently available on major VOD platforms.
