Film Review: The Bride!

 While more than aware that there have been many adaptations of the Frankenstein story, this one really excited me. 

Not just because Maggie Gyllenhaal was directing (although that was definitely a big part of it) but having the Bride speak and say what was on her mind was just thrilling. 

The trailer gave us all a taste of what was to come but it was nowhere near the complete story - you weren't shown the whole film in two minutes which is always a massive relief - it just the beginning of the crazy ride that the film is.

For all that Jessie Buckley has shown us thus far, it has felt somewhat like seeing a Ferrari on streets with a speed limit. Impressive - but you could always get the feeling she has so much more to offer the world.

Here, we see her at full speed - and it is glorious. No holds barred, utterly fearless and a frenetic performance that starts at full speed and goes from there.

In every scene, Christian Bale matches her energy levels - his performance is too, one for the ages and in every scene, they both complement each other beautifully. It is a delicate dance but not once do either of them put a foot wrong.

The story itself feels very Bonnie & Clyde-esque - but never runs out of steam - once more Ms Gyllenhall proving herself a master storyteller - with the editing keeping the story taut and the viewer on the edge of your seat.

Absolute masterclass - the score by Hildur Guðnadóttir is something else entirely - elevates the entire film to a whole new level of brilliance. I'm eager to watch the whole thing again, to revel in the gory delight that is this film. 

Special mention to the supporting cast: Jake Gyllenhaal, Peter Sarsgaard, Penelope Cruz and of course, we can't forget Annette Bening as the woman who starts the race off proper. 

To say any more would be to spoil it and I won't be doing that. Go see it, you won't be disappointed when you do.