Victor Frankenstein assembles the being known as "Skell" from deceased human remains and animates it through scientific experimentation. Branded a violent threat after attacking Victor's assistant and falling from a cliff during its creation, the being survives. It wanders in confusion, unintentionally killing villagers while scavenging for clothing and sustenance.

Victor's daughter, Emily, and her blind grandfather encounter the creation in their isolated cabin. Recognizing its inherent desire for compassion, they name it "Franken" and forge a bond of acceptance. Through this connection, Franken encounters concepts of spirituality and empathy.

Tragedy disrupts this bond. A forest fire claims the life of Emily's mother, Elizabeth, despite Franken's rescue attempt. Amidst the chaos, Franken accidentally kills a man named Philip during a confrontation. Misinterpreting events, Emily shoots Franken in the hand, inflicting deep emotional pain and renewing his isolation.

Seeking solace, Franken retreats to a church. Observing a crucifix, he discovers a parallel between the wound in Christ's hand and his own injury. This realization triggers an emotional breakdown where he tearfully pleads for divine forgiveness. Victor, blaming Franken for Elizabeth's death, tracks him there, but Franken escapes.

Emily later learns from her grandfather that Franken was not responsible for her mother's death and seeks reconciliation. However, during a police confrontation led by Inspector Bellbeau in the mountains, Franken speaks Emily's name for the first time. Overwhelmed by suffering and rejection, he chooses to end his existence by leaping from a cliff. Victor, consumed by guilt over his creation's tragic path and the resulting devastation, subsequently takes his own life.