Guillermo del Toro’s “Frankenstein” (2025) is a visually stunning and emotionally rich adaptation of Mary Shelley’s classic novel. Set in 1857, the Victorian era, the film centers on the brilliant but arrogant scientist Victor Frankenstein, played by Oscar Isaac, who creates a creature with superhuman strength and regenerative abilities, portrayed by Jacob Elordi. The movie begins in the Arctic with a tense hunter-and-hunted scenario between the creator and his creation and then unfolds through Victor’s recount of events leading to the creature’s genesis.
Del Toro maintains fidelity to the original story but introduces a pronounced Gothic and fantastical style, adding depth and freshness to a well-known narrative. The film is marked by exceptional production design, including a laboratory inspired by traditional Frankenstein imagery with modern touches, and impressive practical effects. The cinematography captures hauntingly beautiful scenes, especially during the creature’s creation and the use of electricity, accompanied by Alexandre Desplat’s evocative score. Del Toro infuses Christian symbolism and emotional poignancy, expanding the humanity of the Monster, reminiscent of earlier classic horror portrayals.
Performances are a highlight, with Oscar Isaac delivering a nuanced portrayal of Victor’s torment and ambition, while Jacob Elordi’s transformative performance as the Creature captures both his innocence and rage. Supporting roles by Mia Goth, Christoph Waltz, and several others add depth to the narrative. The storyline explores themes of creation, obsession, and the consequences of playing god, amplified by the backdrop of the Crimean War and the use of battlefield remains in Victor’s experiments, which intensify the film’s darker tone.
Despite the film’s nearly two-and-a-half-hour runtime and some plot shortcuts, it remains captivating throughout, balancing horror, heartbreak, and spectacle. “Frankenstein (2025)” emerges as a poetic, richly crafted film that respects its source material while bearing del Toro’s unmistakable artistic imprint, making it one of the year’s most memorable cinematic experiences.
Key Points:
-
Victorian-era setting with period-accurate and Gothic production design.
-
Strong performances by Oscar Isaac and Jacob Elordi.
-
Emotional depth and complex humanity given to Frankenstein’s Creature.
-
A mix of practical effects and CGI for a visually stunning atmosphere.
-
Themes of creation, obsession, and consequence are deeply explored.
-
The film is long, with some narrative pacing issues, but overall engaging.
-
Alexandre Desplat’s score enhances the emotional and dramatic tone.
This adaptation stands out for its artistry, ambitious storytelling, and ability to renew a familiar story with fresh emotional layers and visual grandeur. It is a must-watch for fans of classic literature adaptations and Gothic horror cinema.