UPDATE: Guillermo del Toro’s highly anticipated adaptation of Frankenstein has officially hit Netflix, and it’s turning heads with its bold departures from Mary Shelley’s original novel. Released on October 17, 2025, after a brief theatrical run, this Gothic horror film is reshaping the narrative and challenging audience perceptions.
The film dives deep into Victor Frankenstein’s backstory, offering a darker and more tragic portrayal than the novel. Unlike Shelley’s version, where Victor’s upbringing is stable, del Toro reveals a strained relationship with his father, Leopold, portrayed by Charles Dance. This shift explores the theme of “the sins of the father,” suggesting that Victor’s own torment shapes his monstrous creation, adding emotional depth to the character’s motivations.
In another significant change, the film sets its events during the Crimean War, specifically in 1855, allowing Victor easier access to bodies for his experiments. This historical context enhances the film’s visual and thematic richness, aligning it with the Victorian era that also influenced other monster tales like Dracula.
One of the most notable omissions is the character Justine, a key figure in the novel who suffers greatly due to Victor’s actions. Without her, the film takes a different path, focusing instead on Victor’s relationships and the emotional fallout from his choices. The absence of Justine removes a significant moral quandary from the story, raising questions about accountability and the consequences of ambition.
Del Toro also introduces Henrich Harlander, a war profiteer who aids Victor in his experiments, a character absent from Shelley’s narrative. This addition creates a new dynamic, emphasizing the darker side of Victor’s pursuits and his mentor’s influence on his descent into madness.
The film’s portrayal of the Creature, played by Jacob Elordi, is far more sympathetic than in the book. Rather than a mindless monster, del Toro’s Creature experiences emotional growth and suffering, especially after the death of his only friend, a blind man, at the hands of wolves. This pivotal moment deepens the Creature’s grief and intensifies his conflict with Victor, highlighting the tragic consequences of Victor’s hubris.
Elizabeth, portrayed by Mia Goth, also undergoes a transformation in the film. Unlike the supportive character in the novel, Elizabeth is reimagined as Henrich’s niece, creating tension in her relationship with Victor. This shift emphasizes the incompatibility of their worldviews, as Victor’s obsession with death clashes with Elizabeth’s fascination with life.
The climax of the film diverges significantly from the novel’s conclusion. In a heart-wrenching twist, Victor seeks forgiveness from the Creature, embracing him as a son. This moment of reconciliation starkly contrasts with the novel’s conclusion, where Victor dies consumed by rage and vengeance, leaving a trail of destruction in his wake.
These changes, while significant, reflect del Toro’s deep respect for Shelley’s work, while also inviting new interpretations and discussions about the themes of creation, responsibility, and forgiveness. The film’s emotional weight and fresh narrative approach are sure to captivate audiences worldwide.
As viewers dive into this reimagined classic, the stakes are higher than ever, making it a must-watch for fans of horror and literature alike. Stay tuned for more updates as the film gains traction and sparks conversations across platforms.
For those eager to explore the depths of this adaptation, del Toro’s ‘Frankenstein’ is now streaming on Netflix. Don’t miss out on the chance to experience this unique retelling of a timeless tale!
