Prepare to have your heart torn apart and stitched back together—Guillermo del Toro’s Frankenstein is a gothic masterpiece that breathes new life into a story you thought you knew. But here’s where it gets controversial: Is this the most sympathetic portrayal of the Creature ever? Or does it go too far in humanizing the monster? Let’s dive in.
Netflix has unleashed del Toro’s long-awaited adaptation of Mary Shelley’s timeless classic, and it’s a feast for the senses. With a runtime of 150 minutes, this film is an epic journey that feels both sprawling and intimate. Del Toro, a master of the macabre, has finally brought his vision to life, and it’s as lush and haunting as you’d expect. But in a world saturated with Frankenstein adaptations—yes, even Thomas Edison got in on the action in 1910—does this one stand out? Absolutely. Del Toro’s version isn’t just a rehash; it’s a reinvention, a jolt of electricity to the story’s well-worn bones.
The Creature: A Tragic Hero?
Jacob Elordi’s portrayal of the Creature is nothing short of revelatory. Gone is the mindless brute of some adaptations; instead, we get a being who is achingly beautiful, tragically misunderstood, and violently thrust into a world that rejects him. With the help of stunning makeup, Elordi transforms into a giant, lost puppy—a creature longing for affection but met with fear and cruelty. It’s impossible not to feel for him, even when he tears a man’s jaw off in a moment of self-defense. And this is the part most people miss: Del Toro’s Creature isn’t just a monster; he’s a mirror reflecting society’s cruelty and our own capacity for empathy.
Dr. Frankenstein: The Real Monster?
Oscar Isaac’s Victor Frankenstein is a genius, but he’s also a deeply flawed, arrogant jerk. Del Toro leans into the idea that Victor is the true monster, a man so obsessed with conquering death that he destroys lives in the process. But here’s the twist: del Toro introduces a vicious cycle of parental abuse, showing how Victor’s cruelty was inherited from his own abusive father, played by Charles Dance. It’s a bold move that adds layers to Victor’s character, though some might argue it’s a bit heavy-handed. Is Victor a product of his upbringing, or is he simply a selfish madman? Let’s debate in the comments.
A Visual Feast—But Is It Too Much?
Del Toro’s films are known for their baroque beauty, and Frankenstein is no exception. Every frame is a work of art, from the cavernous ceilings to the blood-soaked elegance. Cinematographer Dan Laustsen and del Toro create a world that’s both breathtaking and suffocating. But here’s the question: Does the film’s visual splendor overshadow its emotional core? While the production design is flawless, some moments—like the underdeveloped relationship between Victor and Elizabeth (Mia Goth)—feel rushed. Goth’s performance is strong, but her character’s connection to Victor lacks depth. Is it a missed opportunity, or does the film’s ambition outweigh its flaws?
A Monster for the Lonely Hearts
If you’ve ever felt like an outsider, Elordi’s Creature will resonate with you. His longing for connection is palpable, and del Toro’s script ensures we see the world through his eyes. It’s a refreshing take on a character often reduced to a villain. But here’s the controversial bit: Does making the Creature too sympathetic dilute the horror of Shelley’s original story? Or does it amplify its themes of isolation and humanity?
Despite its minor flaws, Frankenstein is a triumph—a film that lives and breathes with a life of its own. Alexandre Desplat’s score adds to the grandeur, making every moment feel epic. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of Shelley’s novel or a newcomer to the story, del Toro’s adaptation will leave you spellbound. It’s alive—and it’s unforgettable.
/Film Rating: 9 out of 10
Catch Frankenstein in limited theaters on October 17, 2025, and streaming globally on Netflix starting November 7, 2025. Don’t miss it—and let’s keep the debate going. Is this the definitive Frankenstein adaptation, or is there still room for improvement?
