Victor Frankenstein (James McAvoy) rescues Igor (Daniel Radcliffe) from his enslavement in the circus. His name is not actually Igor, but he assumes that name after the real Igor, Frankenstein's roommate, mysteriously vanishes. Soon, he becomes Frankenstein's partner helping him with experiments in an attempt to create life. He remains on Frankenstein's side throughout most of the experiments, but he gradually learns of the nefarious motives behind Frankenstein's desire to play god once the monster comes to life.

      There have been many different versions of Mary Shelley's story of Frankenstein. While Victor Frankenstein makes a few changes and adds some new twists, it's not particularly clever or diverting enough to be rise above mediocrity. The simplistic screenplay by Max Landis is stilted more often than not with plenty of expository dialogue and silly lines. Daniel Radcliffe and James McAvoy are both capable actors who fail to rise above the material, though. McAvoy's over-the-top performance doesn't help, either. Can I get some cheese to go with all that ham? By the time the film arrives at its over-produced, CGI-laden, rushed third act, you won't find yourself giving a hoot about any of the characters.

      All-in-all, Victor Frankenstein could have used a smarter screenplay that doesn't undermine its best assets: McAvoy and Radcliffe. You'll have to wait until next year for a much better version of the tale by the talented writer/director Bernard Rose who's not afraid to take risks and to generate suspense, frights as well as some surprising poignancy. Victor Frankenstein lacks intrigue, scares or anything to truly captivate your attention during its running time of 109 minutes.