Mary Shelley
classified 12APlease note: This was screened in July 2018
The tempestuous romance that inspired Frankenstein, one of Gothic literature’s most influential works, is brought to life in Haifaa al-Mansour's (Wadjda) luscious and moving period drama starring Elle Fanning as the radical young writer.
When 16 year old Mary Wollstonecraft Godwin runs away with poet Percy Bysshe Shelley, her family are horrified. Young and passionately in love, at first she relishes life amongst the radical Romantics. But as time goes on, Percy’s betrayals and indiscretions begin to test their relationship. One day, on a trip to Lord Byron’s mansion in Geneva, Mary is challenged to write a ghost story. Drawing on her experiences of heartbreak and the dark side of humanity, she creates Frankenstein, a work that will shape the literary world for centuries.
With a strong ensemble cast including Douglas Booth, Bel Powley and Bristol's own Maisie Williams, this rousing and exquisite biopic balances sumptuous period detail with a timely feminist message. A vivid tribute to Shelley’s passion, courage and craft – and a reminder of her enduring relevance today.