Army of Frankensteins

Army of Frankensteins is an ingenious melding of science fiction, horror, and historical drama, brought to life by independent filmmaker Ryan Bellgardt. Released in 2013, this movie utilizes the classic Frankenstein legend in a new and riveting fashion. With a well-rounded cast that includes Jordan Farris, Christian Bellgardt, and John Ferguson, the film manages to blend campy fun with genuine suspense and powerhouse performances, ultimately delivering a memorable cinematic experience.

The film begins in the modern day, where we meet our protagonist, Alan Jones (played by Jordan Farris), who is grappling with the harsh realities of his uneventful life. He's an affable young man working a dead-end job, and his personal life isn't faring much better. Just when it seems like things couldn't get any worse, his life takes a bizarre, unfathomable turn. Following his accidental involvement with a mad scientist, he's thrust into a world of supernatural experimentation beyond his wildest imagination.

As envisioned by this movie, the scientist (played memorably by veteran actor John Ferguson) has taken inspiration from the Frankenstein lore and is ceaselessly experimenting with re-animating dead bodies, in search for eternal life. Christian Bellgardt plays Igor, the scientist's assistant, who provides both comic relief and a touch of humanity in the otherwise dark premises. The iconic character of Igor is given more depth and character, exuding a strange mix of loyalty and fear towards his tyrannical master.

The film gathers steam when a glitch in the mad scientist's machine sends an unprepared Alan, and a patchworked Frankenstein's monster, backward in time. What makes the story even more intriguing from this point is the historical context they end up in - in the middle of the American Civil War. Here, the film skillfully blends historical reality with the fantastical lore of Frankenstein.

In a story that expertly fuses history, horror, and science fiction, the Army of Frankensteins gives the audience a new perspective on the familiar Frankenstein's monster narrative. The monsters are not just grotesque creatures, but characters with depth and purpose. The sight of reanimated corpses striding across Civil War battlefields is one that perfectly represents the unique blend of horror, wacky humor, and historical drama that defines the film.

Performances from the lead actors are commendable. Jordan Farris, as Alan, provides viewers with a relatable and sympathetic main character. Despite the madness unfolding all around him, Farris's character stands strong as the emotional center of the film. This performance is nicely complemented by John Ferguson's menacing portrayal of the mad scientist obsessed with immortality. Christian Bellgardt, as Igor, serves as the moral compass of the story, showcasing a wonderful range of emotional depth in his character's arc.

The film's visual effects, while obviously produced on a modest budget, are impressively executed. The creature design of the Frankenstein's monsters is detailed and engrossing, adding a level of believability to this otherwise outlandish premise. Moreover, the Civil War era is recreated with authenticity, immersing the viewer in a bygone era that's currently in the throes of a horrific, chaotic conflict.

Army of Frankensteins isn't a typical horror movie, neither is it a conventional time-travel flick. It blends these elements, along with touches of black comedy and tragic romance, into a tale that's as heartbreaking as it is hair-raising. While it capitalizes on the atmospheric elements of horror genre, the movie still leaves room for emotional moments that will tug at your heartstrings, proving that the film isn't all gore and screams.

For film enthusiasts who enjoy a creative mishmash of genres or fans of unconventional horror, Army of Frankensteins offers a captivating new take on a much-told tale. Ultimately, it's a testament to the power of independent filmmaking, a testament to the timeless allure of Mary Shelley's enduring creation, and a testament to the ways in which we can learn from history. Whether it's the terrifying faces of the Frankensteins, the battle cries of Civil War soldiers, or the emotional journey of a protagonist out of his depth, there's something in this film for everyone to appreciate.