MANILA, Philippines—Zelda Williams, director of Lisa Frankenstein, expresses her excitement for the film, driven by her admiration for Diablo Cody’s unique voice as a screenwriter, particularly in crafting distinct characters.
Williams praises Cody’s writing for the infusion of personality, stating, “It’s clear immediately who these characters are, whether they’re for you or not. That sort of strong flavor choice will always be my cup of tea.”
In Lisa Frankenstein, set in 1989, 17-year-old Lisa Swallows (Kathryn Newton) navigates a new school and life after her mother’s death and her father’s swift remarriage. With unwavering support from her cheerleader step-sister Taffy (Liza Soberano), Lisa finds solace in an abandoned cemetery where she unintentionally reanimates a young man from 1837 (Cole Sprouse). To restore his humanity, Lisa embarks on a quest requiring freshly harvested body parts and Taffy’s broken tanning bed.
Meet the characters of Lisa Frankenstein, promising laughter, screams, and love in this special month of romance.
Lisa Swallows (played by Kathryn Newton)
Lisa, a 17-year-old outsider, struggles to find her place among both the popular crowd and fellow misfits at school, including punks, Goths, and stoners. In the aftermath of her mother’s murder, she becomes extremely self-conscious and withdrawn, rarely speaking. Describing Lisa, Kathryn Newton says, “She’s this girl who isn’t heard, who doesn’t speak up. She doesn’t think she matters much, having experienced significant trauma. Hurt and shy, she prefers not to draw any attention to herself.”
The Creature (Cole Sprouse)
The Creature, a reanimated corpse unintentionally brought back to life by Lisa, is a former professional pianist and hopeless romantic. Despite his tragic past, he retains 19th-century manners and etiquette. Grateful to Lisa, his feelings evolve into genuine adoration. Cole Sprouse explains, “Over time, the Creature realizes he’s deeply in love with Lisa, wanting to be her protector and make her feel heard and understood.”
Taffy (Liza Soberano)
Taffy, Lisa’s stepsister, is the kind and popular opposite of the stereotypical “mean girl.” Despite being somewhat clueless, Taffy warmly welcomes Lisa into her family and wholeheartedly supports her efforts to fit in. Cody mentions, “Taffy is my favorite character.”
Janet (Carla Gugino)
Janet, Taffy’s narcissistic mom, showers her own daughter with affection but disapproves endlessly of Lisa. Living in her own world, Janet sees herself as the hero of her story, creating an ideal family in her mind, unable to fathom why Lisa wouldn’t want to be part of it.
Dale (Joe Chrest)
Dale, Lisa’s father, remains a checked-out parent, allowing Janet to exert her domineering influence without much intervention. Producer Mason Novick notes, “Dale is such a checked-out dad,” emphasizing how the focus in Diablo’s scripts often revolves around women, leaving the father as a passive figure.
Michael Trent (Henry Eikenberry)
Lisa’s crush, Michael Trent, is described as an “intellectual punk dreamboat.” Though initially displaying an odd fascination, he doesn’t necessarily harbor romantic feelings for Lisa. Actor Henry Eikenberry notes, “He’s so clueless.”
Don’t miss the undead horror romance of the year with “Lisa Frankenstein,” directed by Zelda Williams and distributed by Universal Pictures International. It hits cinemas on February 7, just in time for Valentine’s Day. #LisaFrankensteinPH.
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