‘Lisa Frankenstein’ Review: Is Diablo Cody’s Comedy-Horror a Hit or a Miss?

Diablo Cody’s meteoric rise to fame was nothing short of remarkable. From her unconventional beginnings as a stripper-turned-screenwriter, she defied all expectations by clinching an Oscar for her debut screenplay, setting her on a trajectory that would captivate audiences and critics alike. Yet, amidst the accolades and adoration, Cody’s journey was far from smooth sailing.

However, time proved to be a benevolent ally as the film gradually found its footing, evolving into a cult classic celebrated for its nuanced portrayal of feminism and Megan Fox’s underrated performance.

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Fast forward to the present and Cody finds herself at a crossroads once again, poised to unleash her latest creation upon the world. Enter ‘Lisa Frankenstein,’ a whimsical yet darkly captivating tale set against the backdrop of the late 1980s. With its blend of high school drama and supernatural intrigue, the film promises to be a nostalgic romp through a bygone era.

At the heart of the story lies Lisa, a misunderstood teenager grappling with the trials and tribulations of adolescence. Her world is turned upside down when she inadvertently resurrects a corpse, setting off a chain of events that tests the limits of friendship and loyalty.

As the plot unfolds, Cody deftly weaves together elements of classic monster movies with a contemporary twist, offering audiences a fresh take on familiar tropes.

Yet, for all its promise, ‘Lisa Frankenstein’ struggles to find its footing, caught between the realms of tween comedy and full-blown horror. While there are moments of brilliance scattered throughout, the film ultimately falls short of its lofty ambitions, hindered by pacing issues and a lacklustre script.

Despite its shortcomings, ‘Lisa Frankenstein’ remains a testament to Cody’s unbridled creativity and unwavering determination. While it may not reach the dizzying heights of its predecessors, it serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of artistic expression, where success and failure often walk hand in hand.

In the end, perhaps the true measure of a film’s legacy lies not in its box office receipts or critical acclaim, but in the conversations it sparks and the emotions it evokes. In that regard, ‘Lisa Frankenstein’ has undoubtedly left its mark, inviting audiences to ponder the timeless question: what does it mean to be truly alive?