A Monumental Debut at Venice

Guillermo del Toro’s ambitious adaptation of 'Frankenstein' has made waves as a centerpiece at this year's Venice Film Festival, captivating audiences and critics alike.

A Long-Awaited Dream Comes True

This project has been a lifelong aspiration for del Toro. When Netflix chief Ted Sarandos asked him about his bucket list films, del Toro immediately mentioned 'Frankenstein', alongside 'Pinocchio'. After the stunning success of 'Pinocchio' in 2022, del Toro was ready to tackle the iconic monster tale. "It's big," he warned, and he certainly wasn’t exaggerating.

Star-Studded Cast Drives the Story

Oscar Isaac stars as the tortured Victor Frankenstein while Jacob Elordi transforms into the creature—his intense preparation caught many off guard. Initially, Andrew Garfield was set to play the creature, but scheduling conflicts led Elordi to step in with just three weeks of preparation. He described the experience as monumental, emphasizing the collaborative environment del Toro nurtured.

A Unique Narrative Structure

Del Toro’s film unfolds in three distinct parts: a prelude followed by dual perspectives from Frankenstein and his creation. This innovative storytelling aims to explore the emotional depth of both characters, highlighting the monster's mistreatment by his creator.

Will it Live Up to the Hype?

Clocking in at 149 minutes, early reviews are mixed. Critics praised del Toro's lavish cinematic style, but some noted the film's pacing might feel excessive. 'Deadline' mentioned that the elaborate production makes it hard to resist, while 'The Independent' critiqued it as lacking substance. Conversely, 'The Hollywood Reporter' lauded it as one of del Toro’s best works, calling it a visual feast.

Del Toro's Vision of Humanity

Known for humanizing monstrous characters, del Toro aims to evoke sympathy towards the creature, rejecting stereotypical interpretations. He insists on a fresh portrayal, wanting the creature to embody beauty rather than tragedy. His meticulous attention to detail, from set design to costumes, contributes significantly to the film’s authenticity.

Artistry Over CGI

With a conviction that physical sets enhance performances, del Toro humorously derided CGI, suggesting it lacks authenticity. His philosophy likens real craftsmanship to 'eye protein' rather than just 'eye candy', underscoring his commitment to tangible artistry.

Themes of Humanity and Connection

While some draw parallels between 'Frankenstein' and contemporary themes of AI, del Toro asserts that his film isn’t a metaphor for artificial intelligence. Instead, it delves into what it means to be human, particularly in a world fraught with division and misunderstanding. He emphasizes the importance of embracing our complexities, reflecting on the necessity of love and connection in tumultuous times.

A Bright Future Ahead

As del Toro's 'Frankenstein' prepares for a broader audience, anticipation mounts. With its blend of grand storytelling and emotional depth, the film may not only redefine a classic tale but also secure its place in cinematic history.