Renowned director Guillermo del Toro, famous for his works “Pan’s Labyrinth” and “The Shape of Water,” is set to unveil his much-anticipated rendition of “Frankenstein” on Netflix. During a recent tour of an exhibition in London that showcases his intricate vision for this gothic classic, del Toro expressed his meticulous approach to illustrating the iconic creature, stating, “We made, I think, the most extensive, minute, anatomical putting together of the monster in the history of cinema.” His attention to detail, from the monster’s tendons to its organs, reflects del Toro’s passion for bringing Victor Frankenstein’s creation to life.
Del Toro’s dedication to the project is evident as he has devoted over 50 years to exploring the themes that “Frankenstein” embodies. He acknowledges the timeless relevance of Mary Shelley’s 200-year-old novel, pointing out its fundamental questions about humanity and existence that resonate with audiences today. “You know, it’s the same questions we have now: What are we? Why am I human? Why am I here?” he mused.
With Halloween’s proximity, del Toro humorously noted that the release timing of “Frankenstein” is no coincidence, suggesting that every day is Halloween in his world. Living in a house filled with secret passages and inspired by monsters, he has created a space dedicated to “Frankenstein,” where he writes, investigates, and interacts with his beloved figures.
The film, starring Oscar Isaac as Victor Frankenstein and Jacob Elordi in the role of the creature, aims to breathe new life into Shelley’s narrative. Del Toro emphasized the importance of the monsters he grew up with, proclaiming them as “patron saints of imperfection” that encourage individuality and acceptance of oneself. His choice to cast Isaac and Elordi came down to their eyes, which he felt conveyed the necessary emotional depth for their respective characters.
Del Toro’s version of “Frankenstein” is eagerly awaited, not only for its visually stunning elements but for the rich thematic exploration of humanity and monstrosity that has captivated audiences for decades. With his unique perspective and artistic vision, del Toro seems poised to deliver a captivating adaptation that honors and enriches the original story. The film promises to be a remarkable addition to the director’s illustrious body of work and a fresh take on a literary classic.