Monster of Frankenstein

50 years after the Universal classic, Toei animation puts their hand into adapting Mary Shelly's monstrous novel, "Frankenstein". In many ways this version is more faithful to the original novel, although I still wouldn't write your book report with it. The visuals of the monster are clearly borrowed from Karloff's portrayal.

This is a charming incarnation of the story. The focus on this version is on Victor's guilt for what he created and later, his daughter Emily. Teaming the monster with a young anime girl just feels right. One of those, only the wide eye innocence of a child can see the truth.

It will never replace the original, but this is still a version that utilizes the story to teach some powerful lessons about pride, science, mob mentality and inner beauty. It is the right balance of Halloween spook and wholesome cuteness.