Guillermo Del Toro’s Frankenstein Review: Built to Last

What a triumph! Guillermo del Toro’s Frankenstein has all the hallmarks of a classic masterpiece—visually astounding, emotionally potent, and thematically rich. Without hesitation, it earns a 10 out of 10. This isn’t just another monster movie—it’s a resurrection of cinema itself.

A Fresh Spark in a Familiar Myth

Del Toro doesn’t just retell Mary Shelley’s iconic tale; he revitalizes it. We’ve seen countless versions of Frankenstein, but never one that feels this intimate, poetic, and human. His direction turns the story of creation and consequence into an operatic reflection on loneliness, purpose, and love. It’s both faithful to Shelley’s spirit and daringly new.

Visuals with Power and Purpose

From the opening frames, you know you’re in Del Toro’s world—where Gothic beauty meets emotional horror. The architecture, the shadows, the bursts of light—it’s all crafted with obsessive precision. The Creature isn’t just a monster; he’s a tragic work of art. Jacob Elordi’s portrayal captures both the horror and heartbreak of existence in a single gaze. Every shot feels painted, every scene deliberate.

Stellar Performances Across the Board

Oscar Isaac delivers a tormented Victor Frankenstein—equal parts genius, madman, and god-complex incarnate. Jacob Elordi, as the Creature, is haunting and tender, bringing a sensitivity that redefines the role. Mia Goth, Christoph Waltz, and Charles Dance round out the ensemble, each performance deepening the film’s emotional pull. Together, they elevate the material beyond horror and into tragedy.

Themes That Feel Urgent and Timeless

This Frankenstein asks timeless questions in a modern context. What does it mean to create life? What responsibility do we bear toward what we make? In an age of AI and unchecked ambition, Del Toro’s message hits harder than ever. The “monster” becomes a mirror—and what stares back isn’t horrifying, it’s heartbreakingly human.

Minor Flaws, Major Impact

Yes, the pacing wobbles slightly in the final act, and the film’s weighty emotion might be too much for casual viewers. But even its imperfections feel intentional—like cracks in marble that prove it’s hand-crafted.

The Final Verdict

Frankenstein isn’t just another adaptation—it’s a cinematic resurrection. Del Toro fuses passion, craft, and soul into something immortal. It’s beautiful, brutal, and unforgettable.