Real-world Horrors and Virtual Monstrosities
In the heart of the Venice Film Festival, two compelling competition films are making waves: Guillermo del Toro's "Frankenstein" and Matteo Garrone's "The Wizard of the Kremlin." Both films offer a chilling commentary on power, human hubris, and the current world situation.
"Frankenstein," a film adaptation of Mary Shelley's horror classic, delves into the dangers of humans trying to stand above everything. Oscar Isaac portrays Victor Frankenstein as a charismatic yet arrogant character, while Christoph Waltz, who plays the arms dealer Harlander, does not express hope in these monstrous times. "I don't," Waltz simply answers, indicating his lack of optimism in such circumstances. Del Toro, the director, believes that the answer to the current state of terror and intimidation includes art, and that the solution is love.
On the other hand, "The Wizard of the Kremlin" is based on a book by Giuliano da Empoli. The story is told from the perspective of a fictional advisor modeled after Putin's former chief advisor. Jude Law portrays Vladimir Putin, and Paul Dano plays the role of the advisor. The film warns against human hubris, much like its competition films "Frankenstein" and "Bugonia."
"Bugonia," directed by Yorgos Lanthimos, reflects the absurdity and brutality of some aspects of the current world. Jesse Plemons plays one of the main characters, a film about conspiracy theorists who kidnap a corporate CEO, believing her to be an alien. The ending of "Bugonia" posits that the most monstrous thing in our lives is not otherworldly forces, but ourselves.
The fictional KGB officer Putin in "The Wizard of the Kremlin" suggests that journalists are like spies, gathering and presenting information for the public to decide what to do with it. Meanwhile, "Frankenstein" explores Putin's rise to the Russian presidency, offering a unique perspective on power organization in Russia.
Both "Frankenstein" and "The Wizard of the Kremlin" are timely adaptations that offer a chilling commentary on the current world situation. As the Venice Film Festival continues, these films are sure to provoke thought and discussion among audiences.
