Guillermo del Toro and Oscar Isaac Infuse ‘Frankenstein’ with Latin American Culture
Guillermo del Toro and Oscar Isaac have creatively reimagined the classic tale of Frankenstein, infusing it with rich Latin American cultural elements. In a recent conversation, they discussed how their shared heritage influenced their interpretation of the iconic story.
Latin Influence on Frankenstein
During their discussion, del Toro highlighted the connection they established right from their first meeting. Both artists recognized how their Latin upbringing shaped their perspectives on themes like patriarchy. Del Toro noted, “The shadow of the father looms differently in the Latin family.” Isaac added that the patriarchal influences are particularly strong, suggesting that their cultural background adds a unique depth to the narrative.
Melodrama and Cultural Significance
Del Toro explained how elements of melodrama resonate deeply within Mexican culture. He referenced the 1949 film “La Oveja Negra” (“The Black Sheep”) by Ismael Rodríguez. This film features Pedro Infante, a legendary figure representing traditional masculinity.
- Pedro Infante’s influence: Isaac incorporated Infante’s dramatic presence into his portrayal of Victor Frankenstein.
- Key scene illustration: Infante’s movements inspired Isaac’s performance, especially in moments of conflict.
Del Toro emphasized that the cultural context informs key cinematic choices. The film’s assertive Catholic imagery and its emotional intensity form a crucial part of its storytelling. Isaac acknowledged that these themes resonate particularly with outsiders, reflecting their own experiences as they navigated their careers.
Identity and Artistic Expression
Isaac spoke candidly about his journey from Guatemala to the United States. He explained how he often felt like an outsider and sought to redefine excellence in his field. “I need to prove myself and be better than everyone else,” he shared, which parallels Victor’s character arc.
Del Toro expressed that Isaac embodies the essence of his vision for Victor. He sought to create a Victor that showcases “swagger, sensuality, and flair,” reflecting a departure from traditional depictions. “It’s important that our Victor is not played by an Anglo actor,” del Toro stated.
From Page to Screen
Del Toro and Isaac’s collaboration represents a unique intersection of cultural narratives. The film features dramatic storytelling approaches reminiscent of classic telenovelas, bringing a fresh perspective to the familiar tale of Frankenstein. Both artists agreed that this is a film distinctly enriched by their cultural roots.
Del Toro humorously added, “When people ask me what’s Mexican about my movies, I say, ‘Me.’” His passion for integrating his heritage into his work lends authenticity to the adaptation.
The film “Frankenstein” is currently in theaters and is set for Netflix release on November 7. This new interpretation promises to challenge and invigorate the classic story through a culturally rich lens, celebrating the duo’s artistic connections.
