Guillermo Del Toro's 'Frankenstein' Review, Jacob Elordi Shines In Tonally Flawed Gothic Adaptation

After nearly two decades in development, director, Guillermo del Toro has finally shown the world his dream adaptation of Frankenstein. The film premiered at the Venice Film Festival on August 30, 2025. Starring Oscar Isaac, Jacob Elordi, Mia Goth, and Christoph Waltz, this Netflix production is a lavish, gothic reimagining of Mary Shelley's literary classic. With Guillermo's signature touch, it blends horror, romance, and tragedy into a film that's as emotionally charged as it is visually rich.

The talent behind Frankenstein: cast and crew

At the centre of this film is the visionary director, Guillermo del Toro, who had also penned the screenplay based on Mary Shelley's 1818 novel. Known for Pan's Labyrinth, The Shape of Water, and Crimson Peak, Guillermo del Toro brings his signature style and emotional intensity to this film. Jacob Elordi, plays the 'Creature' with a mix of vulnerability and strength. Oscar Isaac portrays Dr. 'Victor Frankenstein' a tortured artist-scientist, consumed by grief and ambition.

Mia Goth brings ethereal intelligence to the role of 'Elizabeth', while Christoph Waltz adds intrigue as the arms dealer 'Harlander'. Charles Dance, David Bradley, and Lars Mikkelsen are also part of the ensemble. The crew for the film features Guillermo del Toro regulars, including Dan Laustsen as cinematographer, Tamara Deverell as production designer, Kate Hawley as costume designer, and Alexandre Desplat takes care of the background score.

Plot overview for Frankenstein

The story is structured in three acts, namely, Prelude, Victor's Tale, and The Creature's Tale. The film begins in the Arctic with 'Victor Frankenstein' in a near death state while the 'Creature' is looking for him. From there, the narrative unfolds through dual perspectives, first is 'Victor's' fall into obsession and grief, then the 'Creature's' journey of awakening, abandonment, and eventual vengeance.

Rather than a horror story, Guillermo del Toro presents Frankenstein as a Romantic tragedy. Themes of fatherhood, identity, and the cruelty of creation are explored deeply. It stays closer to Shelley's original text than most adaptations have ever been, offering a fresh yet faithful retelling.

What works for Frankenstein: Visuals, emotion, and performances

Guillermo del Toro's visual world-building is second to none. From towering laboratories and lavish ballrooms to Gothic landscapes, every frame is meticulously detailed. The use of saturated reds and greens, grand sets, and ornate costumes creates a truly immersive experience for the audience.

Jacob Elordi steals the show in Frankenstein  

Jacob Elordi is the best part of the film. His 'Creature' is emotionally complex, curious, childlike, heartbroken, and philosophical. His scenes with David Bradley's blind man and Mia Goth's 'Elizabeth' are among the film's most affecting moments.

Oscar Isaac delivers a powerful portrayal of 'Victor', balancing ego and agony. Mia Goth has a striking presence, with a commanding mix of mystery and empathy to her character. Alexandre Desplat's score elevates every moment, providing grandeur and romantic melancholy to the film.

What falls short for Frankenstein: Pacing and uneven tone

2 hours and 29 minutes long, Frankenstein can feel too long and occasionally too stretched. Guillermo Del Toro indulges in every visual and thematic idea, which results in some pacing issues, particularly in the first half of the film. The shift between the two narrative perspectives, while on paper looks very clever, loses momentum by the mid-film. At times, the emotional aspects of the story become underwhelming due to on-the-nose dialogue or over-stylised imagery.

The film's biggest letdown is its tonal inconsistency, which causes confusion for the audience. The film struggles to juggle between melodrama, tragedy, and surrealism. Some critics have also noted that, despite the film being rated R, it shies away from exploring the ideas of sexuality or fully unpacking the ethical ramifications of 'Victor's' ambition. The director is comfortable enough to show 'Frankenstein' slicing and cutting human parts with blood and gore, but he shies away from exploring sexual desires. 

Guillermo del Toro's version of Frankenstein misses some of the deeper, more unsettling themes found in Mary Shelley's original novel. One key point is that the monster may not seem as frightening if he doesn't pose any kind of sexual or emotional threat, something that has often been part of his horror in earlier versions. Similarly, 'Elizabeth' seems to feel a strange pull toward the creature, but if that connection isn't based on desire or fear, it's unclear what it really means. 

The film at times doesn't seem very interested in Shelley's central message about the dangers of ambition and scientific overreach. The idea of man trying to play God is somewhat missing. Instead, Guillermo focuses more on making the monster sympathetic, which softens the story's darker edge and reduces the overall horror's impact on the film. 

Final Verdict for Frankenstein 

Guillermo del Toro's Frankenstein is a bold, beautiful, and deeply felt interpretation of Mary Shelley's classic novel. The film is anchored by Jacob Elordi's transformative performance. While the film occasionally feels trapped under its ambition and length, its emotional core, stunning visuals, and sincere storytelling make it a worthy, even if imperfect, addition to Guillermo del Toro's filmography.

What are your thoughts about Frankenstein?

Also Read: 'After The Hunt' Review, Julia Roberts Shines In Campus Drama But Story Falters Under Its Ambitions

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