Frankly amazing

Mary Shelley’s most famous creation will come to life again at the Newport Performing Arts Center when National Theatre Live’s acclaimed production of “Frankenstein” returns to the big screen on Wednesday, Oct. 14.

Directed by Academy Award winner Danny Boyle, whose films include “Trainspotting” and “Slumdog Millionaire,” the production stars Benedict Cumberbatch and Jonny Lee Miller. During its original National Theatre run, the two actors alternated between playing scientist Victor Frankenstein and the Creature.

Oregon Coast Council for the Arts audiences have previously had opportunities to see both versions, but this screening comes with a twist: local audience members were given the chance to vote on which actor should play Frankenstein and which should portray his creation. The winning combination will remain a secret until the performance begins.

Adapted by Nick Dear, the production shifts the focus toward the Creature, who enters the world with childlike innocence only to be rejected by his horrified creator. Cruelty and isolation gradually transform him, setting him on a path back to Frankenstein and a terrifying confrontation.

Captured live at London’s National Theatre in 2011, the production features a score by electronic music group Underworld.

The production contains full-frontal male nudity, a stylized depiction of sexual assault, violence, gore and intense or frightening scenes.

Wednesday’s screening begins at 7 pm at the Newport Performing Arts Center, located at 777 W Olive Street. Tickets range from $14 to $22.

For more information or tickets, go to coastarts.org or call 541-265-2787.