Universal Pictures has officially dropped the first trailer for The Bride!, a gothic reimagining of Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein. Directed by Maggie Gyllenhaal, who is reinventing classic horror through a feminist lens. Highlight her past success with The Lost Daughter and how she brings an arthouse-meets-horror style to this project. The film is set in 1930s Chicago and will release on March 6, 2026. The trailer reveals a chilling blend of romance, horror, and power, creating immediate buzz among fans of classic monster stories and modern psychological thrillers.
A Dark Reimagining of Frankenstein
Unlike traditional Frankenstein films, The Bride! shifts the focus toward the female creation. The story follows Frankenstein (Christian Bale) as he enlists Dr. Euphronius (Annette Bening) to resurrect a murdered woman. The result is The Bride (Jessie Buckley), a figure of mystery, strength, and emotional depth. The trailer teases her journey from possession to self-discovery, promising themes of identity, rebellion, and empowerment.
Trailer Highlights
The trailer showcases moody visuals, 1930s jazz-infused backdrops, and eerie moments of scientific resurrection. Jessie Buckley commands the screen as The Bride, while Bale’s portrayal of Frankenstein balances menace with vulnerability. Fans are already noting how the teaser emphasizes The Bride’s independence, suggesting the story will expand beyond the original Frankenstein’s mythology.
Star-Studded Cast
The film boasts a powerful ensemble:
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Jessie Buckley as The Bride
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Christian Bale as Frankenstein
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Annette Bening as Dr. Euphronius
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Penélope Cruz, Peter Sarsgaard, Jake Gyllenhaal, and Julianne Hough in supporting roles
With such talent, The Bride! positions itself as one of 2026’s most anticipated prestige-horror releases.
Building Anticipation Before Release
The trailer release has sparked discussions across film communities, from horror fans to feminist film critics. Many are calling it a bold and necessary reimagining of classic literature. With its March 2026 release date, Universal has created ample room for anticipation, and the buzz surrounding the trailer is only expected to grow.
