Transforming Jacob Elordi Into Frankenstein’s Creature Took 10 Intense Hours
In Guillermo del Toro’s adaptation of Frankenstein, Jacob Elordi takes on the iconic role of the creature, a transformation that required an extraordinary commitment to physicality and artistry. Originally, Andrew Garfield was set to play the creature but withdrew nine weeks before filming began due to scheduling conflicts.
Transforming Jacob Elordi Into Frankenstein’s Creature
Elordi, standing at 6 feet 5 inches, was seen as the perfect fit for the role. The character’s design leans into Mary Shelley’s original narrative rather than traditional interpretations. Prosthetic makeup effects department head Mike Hill noted that the physical appearance was just one part of Elordi’s portrayal, emphasizing that there was “a soul” in the performance.
Makeup and Transformation Process
The process of transforming Elordi into the creature was intense, taking up to 10 hours for the full application of prosthetics. This extensive makeup involved 42 pieces, including 14 specific to the head and neck. The team used an inflatable sauna to expedite the removal process after filming, which took about 90 minutes.
- Total prosthetics: 42 pieces
- Head and neck prosthetics: 14 pieces
- Time to apply: Up to 10 hours
- Time to remove: 90 minutes
Hill noted that Elordi’s patience during these long sessions was crucial. The actor’s willingness to collaborate turned a potentially stressful situation into a friendly experience. Their bond grew despite the grueling demands of the makeup process.
Design Inspirations
The design of the creature reflects 19th-century anatomy and themes from Shelley’s work, moving away from previous cinematic portrayals. Costume designer Kate Hawley spoke about using geometric shapes and vintage textbooks as inspirations for the creature’s look. The team sought to create a being that was both dramatic and deeply connected to the original narrative.
Quote Caravaggio’s aesthetic was also a significant influence, with a focus on the contrasts of light and dark. Fur and leather were chosen deliberately to reflect the creature’s patchwork nature, while Hill and Hawley integrated elements that alluded to the character’s origin and growth.
Meeting the Aesthetic Demands
Elordi’s costume is described as a representation of his fragmented existence. The military coat worn by the creature symbolizes the memories of lost lives and past battles. As Elordi engages with the role, each element of the costume enhances the depth of the character.
Hawley also designed the clothing to show the creature’s evolution, making it both functional and thematically significant. The team faced challenges in adjusting fit and function due to Elordi’s height, but their creativity ensured that the costume met all aesthetic needs while remaining comfortable for the actor.
Cinematic Impact
Del Toro’s Frankenstein is now available for streaming on Netflix. The film continues to provoke thought about complex themes such as power, creation, and responsibility. Elordi’s performance, combined with a striking visual narrative enhanced by collaborative artistic efforts, sets this adaptation apart from its predecessors.
By marrying traditional themes with modern cinematic techniques, del Toro’s vision of Frankenstein invites audiences into a rich, multifaceted exploration of humanity and monstrosity. The collaboration of Elordi, Hill, Hawley, and the entire creative team highlights the innovative spirit behind this iconic story.
