Her role as the Bride of Frankenstein ensured her cinematic immortality, but Elsa Lanchester's life and complicated personality were more interesting than any role she ever brought to the screen.

Born to activist parents, Elsa Lanchester became a nightclub owner as a teenager and was a leading light in 1920s bohemian London. Marriage to rising star Charles Laughton followed, but her discovery of his gay identity meant their union-which lasted for decades-was a turbulent one.

Although her film performances saw her twice nominated for an Academy Award, she was always happiest performing for a live audience, and returned to her music hall roots throughout her career.

During her lifetime, Elsa Lanchester was frequently cast in supporting roles onscreen and was overshadowed by her husband's greater fame in Hollywood. Always the Bride-the first biography of the actress-finally puts her story in the spotlight.