A Glorious Disappointment
Film Brief
Director: Guillermo Del Toro
Where to Watch: Netflix
Initial Rating:
Director Guillermo Del Toro finally unleashes his classic monster movie adaptation of Mary Shelley's Frankenstein. Reportedly a passion project many years in the making, the film is a unique take on the material, focusing more on the tragedy of passed-along generational trauma than a traditional horror thriller.
In terms of aesthetics, this adaptation is simply visually stunning. The gothic style, set design, costumes, and makeup are breathtaking. However, the film is simply not scary. It lacks the thrills or true horror that a Frankenstein movie should have. The creature is extremely sympathetic and almost heroic, which arguably undermines the original story's effectiveness.
The Spark ✅
- Jacob Elordi’s standout, soulful performance as the Creature.
- Impeccable, world-class gothic production design.
- A bold, unique focus on parental cycles of abuse.
The Flatline ❌
- A complete lack of horror or traditional thrills.
- Narrative pacing drags, particularly for book fans.
- Oscar Isaac’s balancing act doesn't always land.
Behind the Scenes
Movie vs. Original Novel
| Feature | Mary Shelley's Novel | Del Toro's Adaptation |
|---|---|---|
| The Ending | Bleak Arctic tragedy and death. | Reconciliation and trauma-breaking. |
| The Creature | Vengeful and articulate killer. | Victimized and heroic figure. |
| The Victim | The innocents surrounding Victor. | Victor himself (via his father). |
The Final Verdict
It’s a hard one for me. I am a fan of the original novel and a huge fan of Del Toro’s work—specifically Crimson Peak and The Shape of Water. While this film is interesting and thought-provoking, it feels like a "glorious disappointment" that lacks the teeth of a true nightmare.
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