The Bride of Frankenstein (1935)

(Fear: The Home of Horror)

The Bride of Frankenstein (1935), directed by James Whale, builds on the renowned use of makeup in its predecessor, Frankenstein (1931). The most visible continuation of Frankenstein's makeup is the design of the Monster as embodied by Karloff. The Monster's makeup underscores his status as an unnatural being, although in The Bride of Frankenstein, it is subtly modified to make him appear slightly more expressive. For instance, his eyes and mouth appear more open, allowing Karloff to express himself with greater ease than in the first film. This shift in makeup reflects the Monster's increasing emotional depth as he encounters longing and rejection.

(Bui)

The appearance of the Bride of Frankenstein, played by Elsa Lanchester, adds an additional dimension to the overall aesthetic. The Bride's sharp elements contrast starkly with the Monster's rounded appearance. Her white streaked hair and angular face positioned her in a separate category from her husband. Her makeup, which was carried out by Jack Pierce, has a striking, almost alien look that makes her appear human-like and monstrous. Her hairstyle, characterised by lightning bolt-shaped streaks of white, emphasises her status as a visually striking monster figure who transcends the conventional notion of a bride. The makeup in The Bride of Frankenstein continues on the artistic and thematic components of the original Frankenstein, while simultaneously introducing new layers of visual complexity that contribute to the film's investigation of humanity and monstrousness.