# Bride of Frankenstein

> 1935 film directed by James Whale

**Wikidata**: [Q875904](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q875904)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bride_of_Frankenstein)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/bride-of-frankenstein

## Summary
*Bride of Frankenstein* is a 1935 film directed by James Whale, recognized as a landmark in horror and science fiction cinema. It is preserved in the National Film Registry and notable for its exploration of themes that intersect with LGBTQ-related topics. The film was produced by Universal Pictures and released in multiple countries throughout 1935.

## Key Facts
- Directed by James Whale.
- Released in 1935 with staggered premiere dates: January 1 (Los Angeles), April 20 (New York), May 3 (USA), and May 6 (UK).
- Produced and distributed by Universal Pictures.
- Classified as a horror film, science fiction film, and LGBTQ-related film.
- Set in the United States, where it was produced.
- Selected for preservation in the National Film Registry (established in 1988).
- Also known as *The Bride of Frankenstein*.
- Sitelink count: 37 (indicating cross-platform references).
- Publication dates vary by location, reflecting staggered international releases.

## FAQs
**Q: Who directed *Bride of Frankenstein*?**  
A: The film was directed by James Whale, a key figure in early horror cinema.  

**Q: What genres is the film associated with?**  
A: It is classified as a horror film, science fiction film, and LGBTQ-related film, blending elements of each genre.  

**Q: When was the film released?**  
A: Release dates include January 1, 1935 (Los Angeles), April 20, 1935 (New York), May 3, 1935 (USA), and May 6, 1935 (UK).  

**Q: Why is the film historically significant?**  
A: It was selected for preservation in the National Film Registry, recognizing its cultural and historical importance.  

**Q: Which company produced the film?**  
A: Universal Pictures, a major American film studio founded in 1912, produced and distributed the film.  

## Why It Matters
*Bride of Frankenstein* is a seminal work in both horror and science fiction, influencing generations of filmmakers with its atmospheric storytelling and thematic depth. Its inclusion in the National Film Registry underscores its enduring cultural value, while its exploration of isolation and identity—particularly through the lens of LGBTQ-related themes—adds layers of complexity that were rare for its time. As a product of Universal Pictures, it also represents the studio’s dominance in early genre cinema, solidifying the template for future monster movies and beyond.

## Notable For
- Selected for the National Film Registry, ensuring its preservation as a culturally significant film.  
- Early example of a mainstream film engaging with LGBTQ-related themes.  
- Directed by James Whale, a pioneering filmmaker known for his contributions to the horror genre.  
- Part of Universal Pictures’ iconic slate of monster films, cementing the studio’s legacy in the genre.  
- Demonstrates a blend of horror and science fiction elements that became a hallmark of the era.  

## Body

### Production and Release
*Bride of Frankenstein* was directed by James Whale and produced by Universal Pictures, a studio founded in 1912 that played a pivotal role in shaping early American cinema. The film saw staggered releases in 1935, premiering in Los Angeles on January 1, followed by New York on April 20, a wider U.S. release on May 3, and a UK debut on May 6. This distribution strategy reflects the logistical challenges and regional marketing practices of the time.

### Genre and Themes
The film is classified across three genres: horror, science fiction, and LGBTQ-related. While it is best known for its horror and sci-fi elements—typified by its iconic monster imagery and scientific experimentation narrative—it also explores themes of isolation and identity that resonate with LGBTQ-related discourse. This multifaceted approach set it apart from contemporaneous films, contributing to its lasting critical reevaluation.

### Preservation and Legacy
In recognition of its cultural and historical significance, *Bride of Frankenstein* was selected for preservation in the National Film Registry. Established in 1988 by the U.S. Library of Congress, the registry honors films deemed “culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant.” This designation ensures the film’s longevity as a artifact of American cinema, accessible for study and appreciation by future generations.

### Cultural Impact
As a product of Universal Pictures, the film bolstered the studio’s reputation as a leader in genre filmmaking, particularly in the horror and science fiction spaces. Its influence can be traced through decades of subsequent films and media, from direct sequels and remakes to broader narrative tropes involving scientific hubris and “othered” characters. Whale’s direction, marked by visual flair and emotional depth, further distinguishes the film within the Universal canon, underscoring its status as a technical and artistic achievement of 1930s Hollywood.

## References

1. The Movie Database
2. [Source](https://www.loc.gov/programs/national-film-preservation-board/film-registry/complete-national-film-registry-listing/)
3. Bride of Frankenstein. Rotten Tomatoes
4. IMDb
5. [IMDb](https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0026138/releaseinfo)
6. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
7. Kinopoisk
8. [Source](https://www.kijkwijzer.nl/films/bride-of-frankenstein-1935/)
9. [Source](https://www.kijkwijzer.nl/films/bride-of-frankenstein/)
10. terjesztesre_kerulo_filmalkotasok_nyilvantartasa.xlsx
11. Bechdel Test Movie List
12. mymovies.it
13. [Source](https://ui.eidr.org/view/content?id=10.5240/AD91-77F6-7587-BDFC-274C-J)
14. National Library of Israel Names and Subjects Authority File
15. Trakt.tv
16. FilmVandaag.nl