The tale of Frankenstein, stemming from Mary Shelley’s 1818 novel, has enchanted audiences for over two centuries. This iconic story follows Victor Frankenstein, a scientist enthralled by the mysteries of death, who ventures to create life itself. When he animates a being crafted from lifeless bodies, horror ensues as he recoils in fear and abandons his creation, setting off a chain of tragic events.
Among the legion of fans captivated by this narrative is filmmaker Guillermo del Toro. He openly expresses his long-standing affection for the story, declaring it a dream project he had hoped to realize for decades. Previous attempts to secure a production deal had left him disheartened, but with Netflix’s backing, his passion project has finally come to life.
Del Toro’s Frankenstein Breathes New Life Into The Centuries-Old Tale
The new Netflix adaptation skillfully interweaves modern insights with the underlying themes of the original tale. While previous interpretations often portrayed the creature as a mere monster, del Toro’s vision presents him as a complex character, a being with genuine emotions. The narrative, familiar to readers of the original novel where the monster exacts revenge on Victor by harming his fiancée Elizabeth, has been reimagined by del Toro. Instead, Elizabeth is now depicted as Victor’s sister-in-law, adding a fresh dynamic to their relationship. This unique twist invites deeper exploration of Victor’s psyche and relationships.
The Lead Duo Carries the Entire Film On Their Shoulders
The film’s emotional weight primarily rests on the performances of its lead actors, Oscar Isaac and Jacob Elordi. Having been a fan of Isaac since his stellar performance in “Moon Knight,” I had high expectations, and he exceeded them brilliantly. Elordi embodies the creature in a way that feels both haunting and genuine, enhancing the film’s depth significantly.
Their performances navigate a spectrum of emotions. Isaac’s Victor is a man torn between ambition and horror; his egotism clashes with overwhelming guilt upon seeing his creation. Elordi’s monster starts as a yearning, innocent being seeking acceptance. His desire to bond with Victor contrasts sharply with the rage that unfolds later in the story, especially when tragedy strikes.
Final Thoughts
In my opinion, del Toro’s adaptation is a remarkable reimagining of a timeless classic. The film aligns with the anticipation surrounding its release, offering rich character development and striking visuals. While it’s a solid 2-hour and 20-minute film, I found myself wishing for even more exploration of the monster’s journey through the world. One standout scene features Victor’s dream where a guardian angel materializes, blending spookiness with beauty and truly showcasing the film’s visual artistic merit.
Should You Watch Netflix’s Frankenstein?
Absolutely! Netflix’s “Frankenstein” is a must-see, particularly if you’re a del Toro enthusiast or a fan of horror adaptations. Released over the weekend, it’s a perfect viewing choice that won’t disrupt your weekday routine. Missing this film would surely be a regret for any genre lover.
This captivating reimagining encourages you to dig deeper into the classic tale of Frankenstein. If you enjoyed this article, explore more about innovative adaptations and insights at Moyens I/O.