Mary Shelley tells the story of Mary Wollstonecraft Godwin (Elle Fanning) – author of one of the world’s most famous Gothic novels ‘Frankenstein’ – and her fiery, tempestuous relationship with renowned romantic poet Percy Bysshe Shelley.
The pair are outsiders constrained by polite society but bound together by a natural chemistry and progressive ideas that are beyond the boundaries of their age and time. Mary and Percy declare their love for each other and much to her family’s horror they run away together, joined by Mary’s half-sister Claire.
During growing tension within their relationship during their stay at Lord Byron’s house at Lake Geneva, the idea of Frankenstein is conceived when a challenge is put to all houseguests to write a ghost story. An incredible character is created, which will loom large in popular culture for centuries to come, but society at the time puts little value in female authors. At the tender age of 18, Mary is forced to challenge these preconceptions, to protect her work and to forge her own identity.
With a strong ensemble cast including Douglas Booth, Bel Powley, Joanne Froggatt, Stephen Dillane and Maisie Williams, this rousing biopic balances sumptuous period detail with a timely feminist message. Directed by Saudi Arabia’s first female filmmaker, Haifaa al-Mansour, it’s a vivid tribute to Shelley’s passion, courage and craft – and a reminder of her enduring relevance today.
The UK premiere of Mary Shelley takes place on Tuesday 26 June at 8.35pm at Cineworld with an additional showing on Thursday 28th June at 6.00pm at Cineworld before going on general release on 6th July 2018.
Booking information can be found here.
