Del Toro’s Frankenstein Lacks Innovation and Freshness
The new adaptation of Mary Shelley’s classic tale of Frankenstein by Guillermo del Toro has been met with mixed reviews. The film stars Oscar Isaac as Baron Victor Frankenstein and Jacob Elordi as the creature, marking a fresh, albeit not particularly innovative, take on the timeless narrative.
Key Elements of Del Toro’s Frankenstein
- Director: Guillermo del Toro
- Main Cast:
- Oscar Isaac as Baron Victor Frankenstein
- Jacob Elordi as the creature
- Mia Goth as the fiancée
- Christoph Waltz as an arms dealer
- Setting: Starts with a Danish expedition in the Arctic, then transitions to Victorian-era Europe.
- Thematic Focus: Explores man’s ambition, rejection, and the quest for redemption.
Plot Overview
The film begins with a Danish ship trapped in Arctic ice, where the crew rescues an injured Victor Frankenstein. Shortly after their rescue, they encounter the creature, who displays superhuman abilities. Victor reveals he created this being, establishing a pivotal dynamic between maker and creation.
Flashbacks reveal Victor’s troubled childhood and his complicated relationship with his father, a noted physician played by Charles Dance. After his mother’s death, his ambition drives him to triumph over death, albeit leading to expulsion from the medical community after a failed experiment.
Character Dynamics
The arms dealer, an invented character portrayed by Christoph Waltz, provides Victor with the funds necessary to continue his work. Blessings and curses intertwine as Victor becomes increasingly isolated in his pursuits.
In a contrasting twist, the creature is depicted not as a lumbering monster but a slender, ethereal figure with haunting beauty. His relationship with Victor is marked by complexity and tension, particularly when Victor mistreats him. Furthermore, the creature serves as a mirror reflecting Victor’s own monstrosity.
Visual and Thematic Styles
- Visual Appeal: The film is visually striking, showcasing immaculate Victorian scenes.
- Violence and Gore: The narrative includes graphic sequences, especially during the creature’s creation.
- Character Depth: Mia Goth’s character, while compelling, is perceived as underdeveloped.
Conclusion
Despite strong performances—particularly that of Elordi—some critics have expressed that the film lacks innovation and freshness. Familiar themes of father-son dynamics and sympathy for the monster are present but may feel clichéd. Viewers may find the pacing slow; however, the film’s availability on Netflix allows for flexible viewing options. Overall, while not groundbreaking, del Toro’s adaptation of Frankenstein presents a visually rich experience that invites reflection on the true nature of monstrosity.
