Netflix’s Frankenstein (2025) is not a series but a feature film directed by Guillermo del Toro. Known for his gothic imagination and emotional storytelling, del Toro reinterprets Mary Shelley’s legendary novel with a fresh lens. Instead of focusing only on horror, he crafts a tale that is both visually spectacular and emotionally resonant, making the monster more human than ever before.
Plot & Themes
The film follows Victor Frankenstein (Oscar Isaac), a brilliant scientist whose obsession with conquering death leads him to create life unnaturally. His creation, played by Jacob Elordi, is not depicted as a mindless beast but as a tragic figure struggling with rejection, loneliness, and identity.
- Themes explored: ambition, morality, isolation, and the consequences of unchecked scientific pursuit.
- Del Toro emphasizes the emotional bond between creator and creature, showing how both are victims of their own choices.
Performances
- Oscar Isaac: Brings depth to Victor Frankenstein, portraying him as both arrogant and vulnerable.
- Jacob Elordi: Delivers a haunting performance as the Creature, balancing menace with heartbreaking vulnerability.
- Mia Goth: Adds intensity in her supporting role, grounding the film’s emotional core.
Visuals & Cinematic Style
Guillermo del Toro’s signature artistry is unmistakable:
- Gothic set designs filled with candlelit halls, stormy landscapes, and eerie laboratories.
- Cinematography that balances horror with beauty, making every frame painterly.
- Practical effects and makeup that make the Creature simultaneously terrifying and sympathetic.
Conclusion
Netflix’s Frankenstein is a visually breathtaking, emotionally layered film that redefines the monster as a tragic figure. While not everyone agrees with del Toro’s romantic approach, it remains a powerful cinematic experience that blends gothic horror with human emotion.