The adaptation of the gothic classic "Frankenstein" took form in the 2012 moving picture of "Frankenweenie". "Frankenweenie"and Mary Shelley's Frankenstein have parallels in their plots, yet simultaneously are different. Both share the same backstory, the main character being Victor Frankenstein, and the themes of resurrection with the consequences of playing God.
Victor Frankenstein:
Taking after the original Victor Frankenstein, the Victor in "Frankenweenie" has an unconditional love and fascination with science, seeing as he was interested in joining and winning the science competition. He is inspired by his mentor by using electrical currents to jolt the isolated frog legs -- an experiment that can help him win the science fair. He tests this out on his late dog, Sparky, without giving a second-thought to the potential consequences of resurrecting his only friend (the void of loneliness being another parallel to Shelley's Frankenstein). Victor is portrayed in the scene of the resurrection as a mad scientist, determined in succeeding and bringing his dog back to life. His longing for his companion is similar to Shelley's Victor and his longing for his mother.
Consequences:
The consequences of Victor's actions act as a significant role in both versions, as it is his punishment for playing God. In "Frankenweenie", Victor's classmates find out how to resurrect their dead pets, and it turns out disastrous. The most important part of the experiment and it's success is the true bond between the two -- the kids were only doing it out of greed. The significance of nurture and care is reinstalled, relating to Shelley's original and the ethics of parenthood. Shelley's Victor is haunted by his own creation, threatened to apologize and create another life to accompany the creature.
Atmosphere:
"Frankenweenie" and Frankenstein both follow gothic literature and it's themes, creating an eerie and creepy mood to the adaptation. "Frankenweenie" is edited in black and white, and it's characters are illustrated with sunken eyes and frail bodies. Tim Burton, who created the film, has a specific style of illustration, and is known for his gothic and dark films.
