Oscar Isaac Shines as Arrogant 1850s Tech Innovator in ‘Frankenstein’ Review
Guillermo del Toro’s adaptation of “Frankenstein” offers a fresh take on Mary Shelley’s classic tale, highlighting themes relevant to modern society. Oscar Isaac stars as Baron Victor Frankenstein, a character reimagined as an ambitious tech innovator in the 1850s, a period paralleling today’s Silicon Valley.
Overview of Del Toro’s ‘Frankenstein’
The film is set in 1850s Europe, where the director draws parallels between the era’s advancements and current technological obsessions. Del Toro, known for his love of monstrous characters, transforms Victor into a complex individual driven by egotism and a desire for immortality.
| Character | Actor | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Victor Frankenstein | Oscar Isaac | A short-sighted egomaniac and ambitious inventor. |
| Henrich Harlander | Christoph Waltz | A wealthy investor and enabler of Victor’s ambitions. |
| Creature | Jacob Elordi | A modern interpretation that combines rock star qualities with horror. |
The Character Dynamics
Victor Frankenstein, portrayed by Isaac, portrays a man driven by a need to transcend human limitations. This need is amplified by his relationship with Henrich Harlander, who epitomizes the modern-day tech investor, encouraging reckless ambition. Harlander’s advice to not be “a reasonable man” reveals the disregard for ethical boundaries.
The Themes of Creation and Consequence
Del Toro emphasizes the cautionary tale embedded in Shelley’s novel about the dangers of unchecked innovation. Victor’s obsession blinds him to the ramifications of his work, echoing current concerns about technology and its potential to outpace morality. The film serves as a critique of today’s tech culture, where success often trumps ethics.
Unique Visuals and Direction
Visually stunning, “Frankenstein” features remarkable production design and costumes. The artistic choices highlight the grotesque nature of Victor’s experiments, with elements like buzzing flies and decaying organic matter underscoring the film’s horror aspects.
Musical Score and Atmosphere
Alexandre Desplat’s score complements the eerie atmosphere, enhancing the film’s exploration of creation and despair. Del Toro’s attention to detail creates a vivid world where the horror lies not just in the Creature, but in Victor’s journey and emotional turmoil.
Release Information
“Frankenstein” is set for a limited release on October 17, 2025. Rated R for bloody violence and grisly images, the film runs for 2 hours and 29 minutes.
Conclusion
Del Toro’s “Frankenstein” stands out as a modern masterpiece, blending horror with profound themes of ambition, creation, and the human condition. As audiences brace for this retelling, the film promises to challenge perceptions about innovation and responsibility.
