Jacob Elordi is stepping into a pivotal role as he portrays the Creature in Guillermo del Toro’s highly anticipated adaptation of Frankenstein. From the moment he received the call to join this project, Elordi recognized it as a defining film in his career, one that would challenge him in a profound way. With unwavering trust in the visionary director, Elordi felt reassured that del Toro had a clear vision for the character, eliminating any fear of the complex task ahead.
In del Toro’s fresh interpretation of Mary Shelley’s timeless narrative, Elordi undergoes a remarkable transformation, embodying the evolution of the Creature from a newly created being—brought to life by the ambitious scientist Victor Frankenstein, played by Oscar Isaac—to a mature entity grappling with the implications of his existence and the nature of his creator. This role prompts significant reflections on the essence of monstrosity and humanity, exploring themes of creation, acceptance, and redemption.
Elordi expresses the deep impact this project has had on him, reigniting his passion for cinema. “I have a whole different energy toward making films now,” he shares, citing recent collaborations with renowned directors like Sofia Coppola and Ridley Scott as part of his cinematic journey. He hopes that audiences will engage with Frankenstein on a deeper level, rather than simply watching it passively.
The filming of Frankenstein has proven to be a transformative experience for Elordi. He immersed himself in extensive preparation, which included studying varied forms of movement, such as butoh, to authentically capture the creature’s journey from innocence to a more hardened existence. The physically demanding process involved hours of prosthetics and elaborate makeup designed by Mike Hill, ensuring that every aspect of the character reflected the art form’s complexity. Elordi notes that donning the makeup was a pivotal moment of transformation, saying, “From the moment I got into the makeup trailer, the performance began, and it was alive.”
Elordi’s vocal portrayal of the Creature also underwent meticulous development, as he discovered that the physical aspects of his character, including the dentures he wore, significantly influenced his vocal performance. The amalgamation of his controlled chants and acquired sounds leads to the Creature’s unique voice, further emphasizing the character’s journey of learning and understanding.
The script delves into the profound themes of forgiveness and the dynamic relationships within the father-son archetype, allowing the Creature to confront and process his trauma. Elordi reflects on how the narrative captures multiple generations grappling with their own fears and failings, leading the Creature on an enlightening path towards understanding and empathy, ultimately choosing to transcend violence through compassion.
Working alongside celebrated actors like Oscar Isaac, Mia Goth, and Christoph Waltz has been a remarkable experience for Elordi, who describes it as akin to being in a candy shop with his heroes. He emphasizes the collaborative effort to create a performance that resonates with genuine emotional depth, affirming that the process is not just about acting—it’s about shared vulnerability and artistic expression.
Elordi’s portrayal and del Toro’s direction promise to breathe new life into the classic tale of Frankenstein, setting the stage for a cinematic experience that is not only visually spectacular but also deeply resonant on an emotional level. As anticipation builds for this retelling, audiences can look forward to a fresh interpretation that challenges their perceptions of humanity and monstrosity.