Guillermo del Toro Optimistic About Creation in Frankenstein

Guillermo del Toro’s upcoming adaptation of “Frankenstein” explores profound themes of creation and parenthood. At the heart of this story is the dynamic between the creator, Victor Frankenstein, and his creation, simply referred to as the Creature.

Key Characters and Themes

• Victor Frankenstein: Portrayed by Oscar Isaac, Victor is a misguided inventor consumed by his work.
• The Creature: Played by Jacob Elordi, the Creature initially can only utter the name “Victor.”
• Father-Son Dynamics: Del Toro navigates the complex relationship between creator and creation, framing it as one of misunderstanding and isolation.

During much of the film, the Creature remains unable to express himself beyond a single word—his creator’s name. This highlights Victor’s failure to nurture and educate his creation, showcasing the destructive consequences of neglect.

Cinematic Approach and Visuals

Known for his artistic flair, Guillermo del Toro pairs stunning visuals with a dark, gothic narrative. The story is set in a grand castle where Victor isolates himself and the Creature. This environment amplifies themes of madness and despair.

Parental Isolation in Cinema

The film parallels other contemporary narratives about the struggles of parenting amid societal challenges. Notable films in 2025 also tackle this theme:

• One Battle After Another: Follows a father trying to protect his daughter from peril.
• If I Had Legs I’d Kick You: Focuses on a mother’s struggles as she deals with her sick child.
• Die My Love: Depicts a mother’s emotional turmoil in a familial setting.

Del Toro’s Unique Interpretation

Del Toro’s adaptation diverges from Mary Shelley’s original text by elaborating on Victor’s troubled upbringing. His father, depicted as abusive—a significantly different portrayal from the novel—provides context for Victor’s fractured relationship with his creation.

The film emphasizes the neglect faced by the Creature, which becomes a metaphor for the repercussions of poor parenting. Victor’s failure to engage with his creation leads to dire consequences, ultimately shaping the Creature’s worldview.

Messages of Forgiveness and Redemption

As the narrative unfolds, the Creature gains the ability to learn and understand the world, fostering a complex relationship with Victor. Despite the harm inflicted upon him, the Creature shows the capacity for forgiveness, hinting at a hopeful resolution.

Del Toro’s “Frankenstein” presents a dichotomy between creation and the responsibilities that accompany it. It challenges the notion of progress and emphasizes the importance of nurturing new life. While the film can be bleak, it ultimately conveys an optimistic view of creation—that despite the challenges, our creations hold the potential for goodness.