Mary Shelley (2017) is a biographical drama directed by Haifaa al-Mansour, focused on the life of the renowned author Mary Shelley, best known for her groundbreaking novel Frankenstein. The film stars Elle Fanning as Mary Shelley and Douglas Booth as Percy Bysshe Shelley, providing an intimate look at the personal and professional struggles she faced in the early 19th century.

The narrative explores Mary’s life as a young woman, delving into her passionate relationship with Percy Shelley, a famous poet and philosopher. The film details her tumultuous upbringing, including the influence of her mother, Mary Wollstonecraft, a pioneering feminist thinker, and the societal constraints placed on women during that era. As Mary grapples with her identity and the challenges of being a writer in a male-dominated world, the film portrays her creative process and the inspiration behind Frankenstein.

A significant theme of Mary Shelley is the struggle for autonomy and recognition as an artist. The film highlights Mary’s determination to be seen as an equal in her relationship with Percy and in the literary world, showcasing her intelligence and ambition. The emotional depth of her character is brought to life through Fanning’s performance, which captures both Mary’s vulnerability and her resolve.

Visually, the film is beautifully crafted, with period-appropriate costumes and settings that transport viewers to the Romantic era. The cinematography complements the storytelling, using light and shadow to reflect Mary’s internal conflicts and the darker themes present in her writing.

While Mary Shelley received mixed reviews from critics, it was praised for its performances, particularly Fanning’s portrayal of the titular character. The film sheds light on Mary Shelley’s legacy, emphasizing her role as a trailblazer in literature and a precursor to modern science fiction.

In summary, Mary Shelley is a poignant biopic that explores the life of a remarkable woman who defied societal expectations to create a timeless literary masterpiece. With its focus on themes of creativity, love, and struggle, the film offers an engaging representation of Mary Shelley’s journey as both an author and a pioneer in her own right.