I'm happy to see this classic TV film finally get a DVD release. An unusual spin on the classic novel "Frankenstein: The True Story" was unique for its high production values, top notch acting, writing and direction for its time. ***

**Minor Spoilers Ahead**

Henry Clerval (David McCallum, "The Man from Uncle", "The Outer Limits") and young Victor Frankenstein (Leonard Whitting from "Romeo and Juliet")collaborate on creating life from the dead. Victor is driven to science and the mystery of creating life by the death of his brother. When Clerval dies shortly before their experiment is complete Frankenstein continues on without him. Victor transplants Clerval's brain into the creature. Clerval discovered that his process was flawed but was unable to communicate this to Frankenstein before his death. Frankenstein succeeds beyond his wildest dreams creating a "human" creature (Michael Sarrazin)who is handsome, a brilliant mimic and extremely bright. Things go awry when the creature begins to disintegrate becoming a "monster" and treated with scorn by those around him. This makes the creature bitter and angry particularly at Victor who tries t o destroy it. ***

Clerval's rival and former teacher Professor Polidori (James Mason)comes across the creature and approaches Frankenstein with a new proposal; Clerval's methods were flawed according to "Poly-Doly" (as Clerval called him)but Polidori can create life with a different techique and superior outcome for the "human" female Agatha(Jane Seymour)he plans on creating. The creature discovers Victor's plans and havoc results. To tell more would spoil much of the plot. ***

The screenplay by playwright Christopher Isherwood ("Berlin Stories" the basis for both "I Am A Camera" & "Cabaret" and "The Loved One")and Don Bachardy is marvelous taking some of the best elements of Shelley's story and giving the story a unique new twist as well. The TV film was nominated for a Nebula Award (writer's award from the Science Fiction Writers of America)and nominated for several Emmys. Directed by film & TV director Jack Smight ("The Twilight Zone", "The Alfred Hitchcock Hour" and the Paul Newman film "Harper")"FTTS" features strong performances from the veteran cast. ---

Image & Sound:

Now the bad news--the image quality for the DVD release is OK but far from outstanding. The quality of the film isn't as good as it could be. The colors have faded and there's noticeable print damage throughout the presentation. I'm very very disappointed that Universal hasn't attempted to spruce this up more for its only probably incarnation on DVD. This is an excellent film with a terrific script that deserved the full restoration efforts of Universal. The shoddy presentation doesn't quite surprise me however as the TV releases from Universal (unless they are high profile series)have had nonexistent restoration. This was a top notch film that deserved to have all the respect of a theatrical film. Audio is OK but presented with such low levels you'll have to pump up the volume throughout the film. ---

If The original prologue featuring James Mason is included but not as an extra. Instead, it's presented at the beginning of the film. I had forgotten how much of a spoiler this was showing scenes and presenting major plot points from the film. You may want to skip this chapter and go to the start of the film if you haven't seen the film in a while as it might spoil the film for you. I mention all of this only because it probably SHOULD have been included as a special feature separate from the original release. There was a pivotal prologue sequence shot but cut prior to the airing at NBC's insistance that probably should have been searched for and included. ***

As mentioned previously the film doesn't have any extras beyond the usual previews. A featurette on this pivotal and important film would have been appropriate. With the quality of actors in the film as well as the setting and budget spent on the project I would have hoped for some extras. ***

The supporting cast include s Baker, Sir Ralph Richardson, Sir John Gielgud, Agnes Moorehead, Margaret Leighton, Michael Wilding, Nicola Pagett and other top notch actors in supporting roles. The performances are dazzling throughout. Although it might not have the gore and rapid pace editing that contemporary audiences are used to it has a terrific and suspenseful story. I suspect that Universal will probably release this as a single disc edition. Unlike a lot of films and TV shows of the day this was actually shot on location in England. ---

Final Words: