The Bride! (2026) – Maggie Gyllenhaal’s Frankenstein Reimagining: Christian Bale & Jessie Buckley in Crime Horror
Maggie Gyllenhaal, the Oscar-nominated director of The Lost Daughter, returns with her boldest and most ambitious project yet: The Bride!, a radical, feminist reimagining of the classic Frankenstein myth. Drawing inspiration from Mary Shelley’s 1818 novel Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus and James Whale’s iconic 1935 film Bride of Frankenstein, this monster horror-romance blends dark comedy, crime thriller elements, and punk-rock energy. Set in 1930s Chicago, the film explores themes of creation, identity, loneliness, radical social change, and outlaw love — with a tagline that promises “Murder! Possession! A wild and radical cultural movement! And outlaw lovers in a wild and combustible romance!”
The story follows a lonely Frankenstein’s monster (Christian Bale) who travels to Chicago seeking the help of groundbreaking scientist Dr. Euphronius (Annette Bening) to create a companion. Together, they revive a murdered young woman, bringing her back as The Bride (Jessie Buckley). What follows defies expectations: instead of a passive creature, The Bride emerges as a fierce, outspoken force — sparking romance with the monster, attracting police pursuit, and igniting a combustible, Bonnie-and-Clyde-style partnership filled with violence, passion, and rebellion. Gyllenhaal has described it as “the punkest love that’s ever existed,” channeling vibes from Bonnie and Clyde, Natural Born Killers, and Wild at Heart — but with electrified skin and monstrous hearts.
The film was shot entirely on IMAX-certified digital cameras by cinematographer Lawrence Sher, featuring stunning period visuals with modern, saturated flair, homages to Fritz Lang’s Metropolis (1927), and a score by Hildur Guðnadóttir (replacing Jonny Greenwood). With a budget around $80–100 million (after shifting from Netflix to Warner Bros. for creative freedom), it’s poised as a stylish, thought-provoking entry in the monster movie genre.
Here are some striking first-look posters and key art capturing the film’s moody, rebellious aesthetic:
These visuals highlight the punk-inspired Bride and the brooding monster in a gritty, atmospheric world.
Stellar Cast & Creative Team
- Jessie Buckley as The Bride — The electrified, defiant star of the film; Buckley has called the role an electric shock, praising Gyllenhaal’s script for giving the character a massive voice and mind.
- Christian Bale as Frankenstein’s Monster — A lonely, complex creature who finds unexpected love and chaos.
- Annette Bening as Dr. Euphronius — The groundbreaking scientist enabling the resurrection.
- Peter Sarsgaard (Gyllenhaal’s husband) in a key supporting role.
- Jake Gyllenhaal (Maggie’s brother) adding family star power.
- Penélope Cruz as Myrna.
- Additional cast: Julianne Hough, John Magaro, Jeannie Berlin, and more.
Gyllenhaal wrote the screenplay, produces alongside Emma Tillinger Koskoff, Talia Kleinhendler, and Osnat Handelsman Keren, with editing by Dylan Tichenor.
Here are intense stills from the trailer and first looks featuring Bale and Buckley in their monstrous, passionate forms:
The official teaser trailer (released September 2025) teases haunted cabaret vibes, electrifying resurrections, outlaw chases, and existential dread — racking up massive views and positioning it as one of 2026’s most stylish horrors.
Why Fans Are Hyped
- Fresh Feminist Spin — Unlike the mostly silent Bride in 1935, this version gives her agency, voice, and rebellion.
- Star Power — Bale and Buckley’s chemistry, plus Gyllenhaal’s acclaimed direction.
- Genre Blend — Horror, romance, crime, and social commentary in a visually stunning package.
- Monster Movie Revival — Amid other Frankenstein projects (like del Toro’s), this stands out as punk and provocative.
Where to Watch The Bride! (2026)
- In Theaters — Premieres March 6, 2026 (IMAX prioritized in North America; international rollout starts March 4–5). Buy tickets via:
- Fandango
- AMC Theatres
- Regal Cinemas International: Check local chains like Vue (UK), Cineworld, or BookMyShow (India).
- Streaming — No date announced yet. Expect a theatrical window first, then likely Max (Warner Bros. Discovery). Stay tuned for updates!
Catch up on Gyllenhaal’s style with The Lost Daughter (2021) on Netflix or rent/buy on Amazon Prime Video, YouTube, Apple TV, etc.
What do you think—does this punk, outlaw take on Frankenstein and his Bride excite you, or are you most curious about Buckley’s fierce performance? Drop your thoughts in the comments!
