Frankenstein is a Netflix project that I saw in theaters, and what a tremendous time it was to witness it with a crowd of other moviegoers. Guillermo Del Toro’s passion project is a spectacle to behold. Mary Shelley’s original novel is followed closely in this adaptation, complimented by impressive performances and stunning production design. Oscar Isaac’s central character is inherently compelling and twisted, supported by Mia Goth’s eccentric, mysterious performance as Elizabeth.
The standout actor, in my book, is Jacob Elordi. He brings an impressive physicality to the Creature, being imposing yet simultaneously gentle and caring. These characters are all outfitted in particularly awesome costumes. The Victorian style of the setting is appropriately grandiose, grotesque, and gothic. It truly is an Oscar-worthy production on all accounts.
By all means, I was not blown away by the film. It follows a pretty concise narrative in a mostly predictable way. It became clear to me, by the third act, that this did not need to be two and a half hours long. With the epic-blockbuster approach of the plot, I feel like it could have been trimmed down a bit for the sake of better pacing.
Frankenstein is a fantastical retelling; a faithful adaptation rivaling 2024’s Nosferatu in scale and passion. I favored the acting and scale of it all and could have gone without the slower pacing, making for a perfectly enjoyable and worthwhile experience.
