10 AMAZING Horror Sequels That Shouldn’t Have Worked

James Whale's Frankenstein was a monstrous success when it hit theatres back in 1931. For this reason, a continuation of the story was pitched almost immediately, especially since this Mary Shelley adaptation only delved into half the source material.

However, horror sequels often came across as cheap cash-grabs in the early days of cinema. (The fact Frankenstein spawned seven direct follow-ups justified this notion all the more.)

Even after Whale agreed to oversee the sequel, Bride of Frankenstein, there were worries about the ballooning budget and drastically different tone. Boris Karloff believed the decision to turn his mute Creature into a speaking character would ruin the story. (The decision to insert a tiny mermaid, archbishop, and ballerina in one scene was also highly questionable.)

Despite the siege of concerns, Bride of Frankenstein was a triumph. It explored the novel's themes better than the original, especially involving nature versus nurture and unchecked ambition. The Creature's newfound ability to talk allowed his relationship with his creator to be expanded, amplifying the tragedy. Although Whale was ambitious to juggle various complex concepts, it didn't stop him from crafting a cohesive and resonant narrative.

It was a tall order, but Bride of Frankenstein arguably eclipsed its predecessor.