This week, in cinemas: Shelley-inspired kooks in Victor Frankenstein; German-inspired spooks in Krampus; and drug-induced pukes in The Night Before.
Victor Frankenstein
★★★★☆
What it’s about: Hollywood, it seems, hasn’t had quite enough adaptations of Mary Shelley’s mad scientist and his monster. So here’s another. This one boasts a script by Max Landis, son of John Landis. Fun fact: other directors to name their sons Max include Steven Spielberg, Anthony Minghella, Mike Nichols, and Tony Scott.
What we thought: “a thrilling adaptation that reinvigorates a well-worn tale”.
The Night Before
★★★☆☆
What it’s about: Seth Rogen, Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Anthony Mackie get together for one last pre-Christmas evening of hedonism, painting the town red (or, in Rogen’s case, puke-coloured). Features the best Christmas knitwear this side of Jingle All The Way.
What we thought: “It doesn’t all land, but The Night Before is largely a salty, sweet jingle ball.”
Krampus
What it’s about: In German folklore, Krampus is a horned monster who punishes naughty children at Christmas. In Hollywood, this has turned into a Burton-esque horror-comedy, with supporting turns from Apatow veterans like Adam Scott and David Koechner. We at Empire wish you all a very merry Krampusnacht, and a happy new Krampusjahr.
What we thought: Krampus is yet to be screened for critics; a review will appear on the site soon.
Sunset Song
★★★★☆
What it’s about: Agyness Deyn’s acting career goes from strength to melodramatic strength, in Terence Davies’ stunning, sensitive adaptation of the classic Scottish novel. Thick highland accents abound; might necessitate subtitles for American audiences.
What we thought: “Beautiful and heartfelt, anchored by a stunning turn by Agyness Deyn.”