Frankenstein 2013 is a modern adaptation of Mary Shelley's timeless classic "Frankenstein", directed by Bernard Rose and starring Xavier Samuel and Carrie-Anne Moss. The film ingeniously applies a contemporary perspective to the age-old story of man playing God, venturing into the realm of science in pursuit of creating life, and facing the consequential potential for monstrous disaster.

One distinct feature of this modern-day Frankenstein is that it opts for a first-person storytelling approach. The narrative of the film unfolds through the eyes of the Monster, christened 'Adam' by its creators, who is seamlessly played by Xavier Samuel. This shift in storyline adds an element of empathety and raw emotion, offering a unique portrayal of the Monster and probing into his trials of identity and humanity.

Set against the backdrop of Los Angeles city, the movie follows the creation of Adam from an initially innocent newborn learning to negotiate his environment, to a displaced entity grappling with the brutalities and injustices of the world. The trajectory of Adam’s journey starts in the sterile environment of the laboratory where he's initially idyllic about the world, but soon he has to step out, and it is here his contradictions with the outlook of society form the crux of the narrative.

The film's focus on the sophisticated bioengineering techniques employed by the enigmatic couple, Dr. Viktor Frankenstein, played by Danny Huston and Elizabeth Frankenstein, played by Carrie-Anne Moss, evokes a chilling reflection of the present-day scientific advancements. The procedure by which Adam was given life – not through a spark of electricity as in the original narrative, but through the injection of artificially created stem cells – adds a provocative modern twist to the story.

The acting in the film is superb. Danny Huston’s portrayal of Dr. Frankenstein is intense and gripping, his unwavering craving for scientific discovery brings life to this well-known character. Carrie Anne Moss delivers a grounding and compassionate performance as Elizabeth Frankenstein, showing unwavering motherly love and sympathy toward their creation. However, it is Xavier Samuel’s impressive execution of Adam's character that truly steals the show. Samuel manages to encapsulate the essence of the character's transformation, from childlike innocence to a troubled personality wrestling with existential queries and deep-seated vengeance.

The cinematography of "Frankenstein 2013" offers a visually stunning experience, an uncanny blend of the gruesome and gorgeous. The panoramic shots of the city and the harsh, eerie interiors of the lab become reflective of the contrasting worlds of the creators and their creation. Director Bernard Rose masterfully utilizes many Gothic horror motifs whilst still maintaining a realist approach which helps add authenticity and modernity to the film.

Bernard Rose’s modern interpretation of "Frankenstein" doesn’t shy away from exploring the challenging themes intrinsic to the original classic. The themes of playing God, the ethics of scientific experimentation, abandonment, society’s rejection of the unfamiliar, and the quest for revenge are all explored with nuanced sensitivity. With its contemporary relevance, the movie channels deep questions about the boundaries of scientific exploration and the ethical responsibility that comes with unprecedented creation.

Being a reinterpretation of Shelley’s original text, "Frankenstein 2013" maintains an element of horror, visceral and psychological, faithful to the Gothic roots of the classic. However, it's more than simplistic horror. The film is laced with philosophical and moral questions that resonate with 21st century views on science, technology, and morality.

"Frankenstein 2013" is a commendable effort and represents a successful confluence of classic literature and modern cinema. With its unique storytelling, impressive acting, thought-provoking themes, and striking visuals, the film reinvents Frankenstein for a contemporary audience. This modernized take on the iconic tale captures the spirit of the original novel while injecting it with the dilemmas of today's bio-medical ethics, exploring the definition of life, creation, and identity. All in all, the film is a multi-layered exploration of humanity that respects its source material while fearlessly venturing into uncharted territory.