Guillermo del Toro’s New ‘Frankenstein’ Redefines The Iconic Monster

Los Angeles, CA — Guillermo del Toro‘s latest film, ‘Frankenstein,’ hits theaters on October 17, before streaming on Netflix on November 7. With a modern twist, the film reimagines the classic monster from Mary Shelley‘s novel.

This time, Jacob Elordi portrays the creature, giving it a fresh look with sculpted features that contrast with the traditional green, bolt-necked portrayal made famous by Boris Karloff in 1931.

The new monster has ivory white skin and a handsome structure, emphasizing beauty over horror. Makeup artist Mike Hill noted that Elordi’s natural features, like his big brown eyes, played a significant role in crafting the character. Hill explained, “It kind of went out the window a little bit,” alluding to the new direction taken with the monster’s appearance.

Del Toro sought a creature that looked man-made, aiming for seamless scars instead of the usual stitches. He wanted the creature to reflect contemporary standards of beauty while maintaining a sense of historical accuracy. “We didn’t want it to look like a road accident victim,” Hill said.

Unlike previous adaptations, in which the creature was rejected for its physical deformities, this version showcases the creature’s intelligence and emotional range. Del Toro’s vision focuses on the complex relationship between Frankenstein and his creation. The creature wrestles with themes of existence and abandonment, bringing new depth to the character.

Elizabeth, played by Mia Goth, finds the creature attractive, prompting Frankenstein’s jealousy. Critics have noted this departure from Shelley’s original narrative, with some embracing the change. Dr. Jeanne Tiehen, a literature professor, remarked, “The story of Frankenstein is often one that I consider a question about scientific progress.”

Elordi’s journey to embody the creature was no small feat, requiring extensive makeup involving 42 silicone pieces, which took more than ten hours to apply. Embracing the transformation, he described the process as “incredibly beautiful.”

The new ‘Frankenstein’ positions the creature’s attractiveness as a focal point, symbolizing a shift in society’s views on beauty and monstrosity. As Hill eloquently stated, “Frankenstein is trying to make a Porsche. He’s trying to make the most beautiful thing.”

Del Toro’s adaptation aims not only to entertain but to provoke thought on scientific ethics and the nature of creation. As the film prepares for release, audiences are left to ponder how this modern take on a classic story resonates with today’s world.