The Curse Of Frankenstein (1957)

Set in 19th century Switzerland, the Baron Frankenstein (Peter Cushing) and his former tutor (Robert Urquhart) collaborate on scientific experiments. After bringing a dead puppy back to life, the Baron decides to take on bringing a deceased human to life as his next project. Loosely based on the classic novel by Mary Wollstonecraft Shelly and directed by Terence Fisher. The definitive film version of the Gothic classic has yet to be made. This handsome Hammer horror is quite popular among horror buffs but it diverges from the Shelley source material as much (if not more) as the many versions that preceded it and came after. Cushing comes across as a bit mature for the eager young scientist and his Baron Frankenstein is completely unsympathetic. As the monster, poor Christopher Lee hasn't much to do and neither does Hazel Court except look lovely (which she does effortlessly). It lumbers along but at least it's good to look at. It was Hammer's first color horror film and its international success spawned several sequels. With Valerie Gaunt and Paul Hardtmuth.