Andrew Garfield Exits ‘Frankenstein’; Producers Swiftly Cast Jacob Elordi
Andrew Garfield has exited Guillermo del Toro’s highly anticipated adaptation of “Frankenstein.” Producers quickly cast Jacob Elordi as his replacement. The film is currently in limited release from Netflix and is expected to garner several Oscar nominations.
Background on the Film
“Frankenstein,” a project long in development, features a budget of $120 million. It is backed by Netflix, with production led by J. Miles Dale, a seasoned producer known for the Academy Award-winning film “The Shape of Water.” Dale and del Toro have collaborated on numerous projects, including the acclaimed “Nightmare Alley.”
Key Details
- Lead Cast: Oscar Isaac plays Victor Frankenstein, while Mia Goth portrays Elizabeth.
- Director: Guillermo del Toro.
- Producer: J. Miles Dale.
- Budget: $120 million.
- Release Date for Streaming: November 7.
Production Challenges
The production faced a significant hurdle when Garfield could not continue due to scheduling conflicts. His character’s designs had been specifically tailored to his physique. Jacob Elordi, standing at 6 feet 6 inches, stepped in to take on the role. Elordi was initially focused on a different project, requiring him to change his physical appearance drastically for the role of the creature.
Filming Locations and Set Design
Filming took place on a frozen lake north of Toronto. The production team created an authentic 19th-century sailing ship and elaborate set pieces, including Frankenstein’s laboratory, which was designed to reflect the era’s aesthetics.
Design and Development
Del Toro emphasizes practical effects, aiming to minimize computer-generated imagery (CGI). Various sets were created to depict Frankenstein’s lab, comprising multiple environments that contribute to the film’s immersive experience. The design process involved meticulous planning, with a focus on thematic elements drawn from Mary Shelley’s original novel.
Expectations and Anticipation
As “Frankenstein” heads toward wider release, critics and audiences anticipate significant recognition during the upcoming awards season. The film’s unique perspective on the creature highlights del Toro’s understanding of the monster’s psyche, presenting a narrative that diverges from traditional interpretations.
The upcoming episode of IndieWire’s “Screen Talk” features insights from producer J. Miles Dale about the film’s ambitions and challenges. Catch it on your favorite podcast platform.
