Guillermo del Toro Revives “Frankenstein” with a Modern Twist
Guillermo del Toro, renowned for films like “Pan’s Labyrinth” and “The Shape of Water,” is set to redefine the classic tale of “Frankenstein” with a modern twist. This latest adaptation, streaming on Netflix, showcases del Toro’s unique vision and deep understanding of the original material.
Bringing “Frankenstein” to Life
Del Toro is not just the director; he also took on the roles of writer and producer for this ambitious project. He meticulously crafted the creature’s design, focusing on its anatomical details. According to del Toro, they have constructed one of the most intricate representations of the monster in cinematic history.
Exhibition in London
To illustrate his vision, del Toro invited viewers to a London exhibition that showcases various aspects of the film. This includes costumes, props, and extensive notes he compiled over many years. Among the displayed items is the original text of Mary Shelley’s novel, which she completed at just 19 years old, more than 200 years ago.
Timeless Questions of Existence
Del Toro believes that Shelley’s story continues to resonate because it tackles fundamental questions about humanity. Themes of existence, identity, and one’s place in the world are as relevant today as they were in Shelley’s time. He cites these themes as essential to understanding why the narrative has endured.
Del Toro’s Personal Connection
For del Toro, “Frankenstein” is not just another classic. He has dedicated over 50 years to this story, seeing elements from it reflected in all his works. From “Pinocchio” to “The Shape of Water,” the influences of Shelley’s monster are woven into his storytelling.
The Cast of “Frankenstein”
Oscar Isaac stars as Victor Frankenstein, while Jacob Elordi portrays the creature. Del Toro selected his actors based on their expressive eyes, seeing brilliance and innocence in their performances. Isaac highlighted the opportunity to work on such a unique project as a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
A Unique Vision of the Creature
Del Toro aims for the creature to exhibit beauty and intrigue, steering away from portrayals that appear grotesque or patchwork. His creative approach involves infusing the character with both handsomeness and depth, challenging traditional depictions of monsters in cinema.
Thematic Elements and Influence
Rich in Catholic imagery and influenced by childhood tales of monsters, del Toro’s adaptation of “Frankenstein” is personal and profound. He views his relationship with the story as a lifelong mission, expressing that every artist is born to tell a few significant stories, and this is his.
Conclusion
Guillermo del Toro’s “Frankenstein” promises to offer a fresh perspective on a timeless story, interweaving personal narrative and universal themes. As Halloween approaches, the film’s release serves as a fitting tribute to the classic tale, inviting audiences to explore their own questions about humanity through the lens of horror and mythology.
