What is an acceptable time frame for a movie to be re-released on DVD? Apparently a year and a half, according to Universal. Frankenstein is definitely a film worth buying twice, but there's a problem on the consumer level when this becomes a separate release.
There's very little left to discuss about Universal's classic horror film. It's more than iconic; it's the version of Frankenstein the public is aware of. Boris Karloff, in a stunning piece of makeup, has been used countless times to represent the monster. His performance sets the tone for every interpretation to follow.
Direction by James Whale is ahead of its time. The lack of music creates a deeper sense of dread and horror, while close ups of the monster are executed flawlessly. The only Universal classic horror film that even comes close is the sequel, Bride of Frankenstein.
Filmed in 1931, it's amazing how effective the film is. In an era of explosions, big budget effects, and even deadlier monsters, Frankenstein still has the necessary impact that made it a success. That's the mark of a classic. 
Remastered for another DVD release, the print is slowly becoming perfect. Heavy dirt is evident throughout, though there has been progress made to limit it and nearly all signs of damage have disappeared. Detail comes through clearer than ever and the sets shine in digital form. The dull, pale face of Karloff can truly be appreciated. 
Audio remains roughly the same. There's still nagging hissing and popping for the entire running time. The mono audio still provides what it needs to, and that's understandable dialogue. Anything else is a bonus given the age. 
Extra features are where this edition begins to fall apart. The previous DVD, The Legacy "Collection," featured all five movies from the Frankenstein series on two discs. That set now costs less than this disc, simply called a part of the Legacy "Series." Extras are repeated from the Collection here, too, though a few pieces are worth watching.
Article comments
1 - Mat Brewster
Looks like I'll skip this. I have the legacy collection and adore it. Sure some of the later films aren't that spectacular, but its great to have them, and the asking price was super cheap.
Why pay more, for what appears to be less?
2 - Iloz Zoc
Ditto on what Mat said. What would have been super would have been a theatrical release of Frankenstein and Dracula on a double bill.
For the 75th anniversary of these iconic films, you would think more attention should have been paid instead of yet another DVD release with little to offer.
3 - Luciano
Poor Universal Monsters - they are so poorly treated that one is tempted to see them as the paupers, with the princes being their funny versions in the Munsters and Addams Family! :!
I guess Universal thought a 75th anniversary is really no big deal at all... And that makes me wonder if they will not simply omit to celebrate the Wolfman, the Mummy, the Phantom of the Opera and my favorite, the Creature from the Black Lagoon, once THEIR turn comes...! :(