Though the season of Halloween has come to a close, a certain monster of large reputation deserves acknowledgement. For over two centuries, the story of Victor Frankenstein and his monster have been a cornerstone of Gothic literature. While no disrespect needs to be given to the story’s reiterations over the years, nearly nothing has truly captured the essence of what Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, or the Modern Promethent. For over two centuries, the story of Victor Frankenstein and his monster have been a cornerstone of Gothic literature. While no disrespect needs to be given to the story’s reiterations over the years, nearly nothing has truly captured the essence of what Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, or the Modern Prometheus was.
I don’t think anyone wants to get ahead of themselves, but as of this publication, November 7th, 2025, that fact may have changed. Guillermo Del Toro’s Frankenstein arrives on Netflix, and while the film has technically been in theatres, it was only in select ones. The film’s ambition is to retell the story of Victor Frankenstein and his creation with much larger inspiration from the direct source, being, of course, the original book. Trailers and images from the movie depict scenes from the Arctic, which, as readers of the original book would know, could mean that the film will follow a similar framing narrative to the book; a sort of starting at the end method.
Most importantly, though, are the themes of the book: humanity, creation, defying death, and the morality of science. Often, these themes aren’t captured in Halloween-style tellings of Frankenstein’s monster. Jacob Elordi (who takes on the role of the monster in the film) appears already to embody something new that general audiences wouldn’t regularly familiarize with Frankenstein. He’s a being that resembles more humanity than monstrosity, speaking sophisticatedly rather than broken speech (or lack thereof), and veiled under wintry clothing with long black hair, which is already much more faithful to the original.
Critical response from audiences who got an early viewing to the movie adds even more to the anticipation, as phrases like “beautiful tragedy” and “lavish epic” already invigorate the spirit of the film. It is fair to note that the film may not be for everyone, as it does have a long run-time of 2 hours and 29 minutes and has been described with a “slow pace.”
Regardless of anything, it is up to you to decide your verdict. Will this become the definitive Frankenstein movie? Or will it be just another attempt at capturing the heart of the classic Gothic tale?
Vance Redd
Staff Reporter
