
Gods and Monsters
1998, Biography/Lgbtq+, 1h 45m
68 Reviews 10,000+ RatingsWhat to know
critics consensus
Gods and Monsters is a spellbinding, confusing piece of semi-fiction, featuring fine performances; McKellen leads the way, but Redgrave and Fraser don't lag far behind. Read critic reviews
You might also like

The Verdict

Five Easy Pieces

The Big Blue

Woodstock

Regeneration
Where to watch
Gods and Monsters Photos
Movie Info
Once a powerful Hollywood director best known for "Frankenstein" and "The Bride of Frankenstein," James Whale (Ian McKellen) is long since retired and in increasingly poor health. His stalwart housekeeper, Hanna (Lynn Redgrave), quietly disapproves of Whale's faceless, nameless parade of young gay lovers, but when the director takes an interest in new gardener Clayton Boone, a former Marine and Korean War veteran, it seems to be for something more than his usual casual conquest.
Cast & Crew
Ian McKellen
James Whale
James Whale
Brendan Fraser
Clayton Boone
Clayton Boone
Lynn Redgrave
Hanna
Hanna
Lolita Davidovich
Betty
Betty
Kevin J. O'Connor
Harry
Harry
David Dukes
David Lewis
David Lewis
Critic Reviews for Gods and Monsters
Audience Reviews for Gods and Monsters
-
Mar 07, 2012I think there is an interesting film in here, but it is severely hampered by a poor script and a dreadful performance by Brandon Fraser. I know what you are thinking. How could the "Monkeybone" veteran give a less than stellar performance? Well I don't know how, but he does. While I understand that in many ways Fraser's character is supposed to mirror the Frankenstein monster, donning a flattop and not pausing much for thought, Fraser gives off the impression that he is too dim to actually even pull off acting dim. In fact, he acts a lot like I'm sure most of America believes he does when the cameras aren't rolling. I actually gave in to mild bursts of laughter just watching him "act". While I would have liked to see the story of James Whales, I was too busy trying to make sense of how Fraser got this role.Reid V Super Reviewer
-
Dec 28, 2010First of all, to the reviewer who said you felt molested watching this movie. You're homophoic and should see someone about that. I thought it was really great. A nice telling of a Hollywood legend (not unlike Hollywoodland - but better!) I love Sir Ian McKellen and was doubtful on Fraser, but he really held his own. He wasn't fantastic, but he wasn't Keanu Reeves. I also really liked the subtle, sparse and dry humor interjected every little while. Something I wasn't quite expecting but it was nice. Most of it done by Ms. Redgrave. Overall a nice movie, not spectacular but definitely worth watching!Jennifer D Super Reviewer
-
Oct 18, 2010unusual but if a fictional account why make it? would james whale be turning in his grave at this portrayal? yes mckellen is terrific at playing queens because... well... duh! aside from that the film is bloody good in a surreal sense. it's simple yet has so much going on in itSanity Assassin ! Super Reviewer
-
Jan 20, 2010Loved Ian McKellen here and Brendan Fraser didn't extend himself beyond what the role required. Did not know James Whale previously. Interesting character.John B Super Reviewer
Quotes
There are no approved quotes yet for this movie.
Verified