Netflix’s Frankenstein Review: Del Toro Revives Classic Tale with Signature Flair

Guillermo del Toro’s interpretation of Mary Shelley’s classic novel, Frankenstein, reflects his long-standing fascination with the story. He describes it as “the quintessential teenage book,” capturing themes that resonate deeply across generations.

Del Toro’s Unique Vision of Frankenstein

Del Toro does not attempt to dramatically reinvent the classic tale. Instead, he explores it through his recurring themes: beauty in darkness, the loss of innocence, and the parent-child dynamic. With meticulous attention to detail, he transforms this 200-year-old story into something fresh and engaging.

The Plot Overview

• Victor Frankenstein: Portrayed by Oscar Isaac, Victor is a man consumed by the obsession of conquering death.
• Harlander: Christoph Waltz plays a wealthy arms dealer who finances Victor’s reanimation experiments.
• The Creature: Played by Jacob Elordi, the creature awakens amidst Victor’s chaos, leading to profound consequences.

Victor’s early experiments disturb his peers, culminating in his collaboration with Harlander. The storyline is strikingly detailed, showing Victor creating a creature that is tall due to the practicality of using larger body parts.

Character Dynamics and Development

The film delves deep into Victor’s psyche. His mother’s early death and his distant father’s influence compound his desperation to bring life to the dead. Victor’s attempts to bond with his creation come across as twisted, as he chains the creature in a basement, showcasing his neglected paternal instincts.

When the creature awakens, it slowly develops an identity, preferring to call out for “Victor.” Nonetheless, Victor’s growing frustration with the creature sets off a tragic series of events, reflecting their complicated relationship.

Thematic Exploration

Del Toro’s version of Frankenstein effectively highlights the theme of parental responsibility. Victor’s detachment and demands for perfection fuel the creature’s eventual rage. The relationship evolves, serving as a commentary on the consequences of neglect and the search for meaning in suffering.

Visual and Artistic Elements

Del Toro’s craftsmanship is evident in every frame. The film features stunning set designs and elaborate costumes that engage viewers. The creature’s design, adorned with geometrical scars, offers a striking visual that is both believable and fantastical.

Release Information

Audiences can look forward to experiencing Frankenstein in select theaters from October 17th, with its streaming debut on Netflix set for November 7th. This highly anticipated adaptation promises to stitch together familiar elements into a living, breathing experience.