Guillermo del Toro’s adaptation of Mary Shelley’s classic novel, Frankenstein, is finally streaming on Netflix after its theatrical release in October. Clocking in at 2 hours and 32 minutes, this Gothic horror thriller delivers a hauntingly immersive experience that lingers long after the credits roll.
️ Spoiler Alert: Some plot details are discussed below.
Synopsis
Obsessed with defying death, Victor Frankenstein (Oscar Isaac) channels his brilliance and obsession into creating life. Encouraged by the cunning Harlander (Christoph Waltz), Victor succeeds—but at a catastrophic cost. The story unfolds as a tense confrontation between creator and creation, exploring themes of abandonment, vengeance, regret, and the universal desire to be loved.
My Take
I devoured this movie in one sitting without even realizing it was nearly three hours long—that alone speaks volumes about how gripping it is! From the very first scene with the Danish voyagers, I was hooked. By the time Victor began narrating, I was completely invested in both his journey and the creature’s tragic arc.
Story & Plot
Set primarily in 19th-century London, the story traces Victor’s life from his close-knit childhood through the tragic events that shape him. The narrative explores the dangers of unchecked obsession, the consequences of flawed parenting, and the complexities of human morality. The storytelling is elegant yet straightforward, guiding viewers effortlessly through every twist of the tale.
Cast & Performances
Oscar Isaac delivers a remarkable portrayal of Victor Frankenstein, balancing brilliance with obsession. Jacob Elordi’s performance as the creature is genuinely award-worthy, evoking empathy for a character usually cast as monstrous.
Mia Goth as Elizabeth Harlander, however, felt miscast to me. Her performance seemed restrained, perhaps because del Toro wanted to mirror Shelley’s original depiction closely. Apart from this, the cast collectively delivers strong, compelling performances.
Direction & Execution
Del Toro’s direction is masterful. The film’s dual narrative structure, dividing the story into Victor’s Tale and The Creature’s Tale, allows audiences to see both sides of the story—a clever touch that adds depth and emotional resonance. The pacing is impeccable; even with nearly three hours of runtime, the story never drags. By the end, you’re rooting for the “monster” in ways reminiscent of Disney’s Beauty & the Beast.
Technical Brilliance
The cinematography is striking, blending warm tones with crisp, detailed imagery. Costume design, makeup, set construction, and practical effects are flawless, reflecting the era while heightening the story’s gothic atmosphere. The sound design and score perfectly underscore each scene, from the quietest whispers to the most dramatic confrontations.
Key Takeaways & Lessons
- Obsession, when unchecked, can destroy both creator and creation.
- Understanding multiple perspectives can reveal truths we might otherwise miss.
- Nurture all living beings, regardless of appearance or perceived flaws.
- Children—and by extension, all of us—absorb their environment, learning empathy and communication through observation.
- Simple acts of kindness, like saying “please,” can profoundly impact relationships.
Observations & Questions
- Who is truly monstrous—Victor or the creature?
- Did Victor’s father contribute to his wife’s death, or was it simply childbirth complications?
- Why did Victor return to the burning lab? Was it remorse or hubris?
- Elizabeth’s reaction to seeing the creature alive seemed underwhelming.
- What exactly did Harlander hope to gain when Victor learned of his illness?
- Why didn’t the crew use their weapon to free themselves from the ice earlier?
- How did the family not notice a stranger lurking in their farmhouse?
- Why did Victor persist in threatening the creature even after it mentioned Elizabeth?
- Is it just me, or do Victor’s mother and Elizabeth share a striking resemblance?
Conclusion
Despite a few puzzling moments, Frankenstein is spellbinding. It’s a cinematic triumph: captivating, suspenseful, and visually breathtaking. The performances, direction, and technical craft come together to create a near-perfect adaptation of a literary classic. While gory in parts, it’s free of explicit sexual content or harsh language, making it a well-rounded experience for adult audiences.
Verdict: 6/10
Have you watched Frankenstein yet? What did you think about the creature and Victor—who do you side with?
