Diablo Cody’s latest film, "Lisa Frankenstein," is a horror-comedy set in the 1980s that offers a playful and feminist reimagining of Mary Shelley’s classic novel. The story centers on Lisa, portrayed by Kathryn Newton, a socially awkward teenager reminiscent of Molly Ringwald’s iconic roles. Lisa becomes enamored with a statue of an unidentified 19th-century man, played by Cole Sprouse, which comes to life during a lightning storm.

However, the newly animated figure is incomplete, lacking an arm, an ear, and other key parts needed for full existence. In her quest to help him become whole, Lisa temporarily takes on a dark and violent persona, leading to moments that blend humor with horror. This transformation underscores the film’s exploration of identity and agency through a quirky, genre-bending narrative.

Director Zelda Williams, making her feature debut, captures the vibrant, pastel hues and stylistic nuances of the 1980s, echoing the work of filmmaker John Hughes. The film employs a sitcom-like framing, emphasizing both the comedic and nostalgic elements of the period, and situates its story within the cultural landscape of the decade.

Running for approximately 120 minutes, "Lisa Frankenstein" navigates themes of empowerment and self-discovery through its unconventional take on a well-known myth. The film seeks to balance campy horror with a lighthearted tone, anchored by performances that pay homage to classic teen cinema while infusing it with contemporary sensibilities.