As expected, Guillermo del Toro delivers his own flavor, style, and flair in Frankenstein. What we get is an experience that breathes new life into the classic tale - one that is a deeply emotional and visually stunning reinterpretation that brings more humanity to the monster. While it’s breathtaking and epic in every sense of the word, its slow-burn nature might not be for everyone, especially for those streaming it from the comfort of their couches or beds.
Somewhere in the Arctic, a Danish crew finds their ship trapped in ice during an expedition to the North Pole. Suddenly, they hear an explosion and discover Victor Frankenstein (Oscar Isaac) injured and near death. Pursuing him is a mysterious entity which comes off as something more monster than man. After fending off the creature’s attack, the crew listens as Victor recounts the tale of how he ended up in the middle of nowhere.
It feels like a crime that such a grand and epic film isn’t getting a wide theatrical release but it is what it is. Still, even if you see it on streaming like us, Netflix and Guillermo del Toro deliver a striking and justified reinterpretation of Mary Shelley’s classic. Each set piece is crafted with stunning detail, from the frozen shipwreck to Frankenstein’s eerie laboratory and more. The grandeur and scale of these moments are palpable on-screen, no matter which screen you use.
Narratively, the film’s structure stood out for us with it presenting multiple viewpoints of the same story that all converge into an inevitable conclusion. However, its more-than-two-and-a-half-hour runtime and deliberate slow pacing might test some viewers’ patience. This isn’t an action-packed monster flick as it leans more toward drama and even romance, exploring grief, obsession, and identity. Oscar Isaac delivers a commanding performance, while Jacob Elordi impresses as the Creature, offering a refreshing take filled with pain, wonder, and surprising tenderness. Frankenstein may not be a film for everyone, but for those who appreciate del Toro’s artistry and storytelling depth, it’s a thought-provoking experience that lingers long after the credits roll.
Frankenstein (2025) Movie Review: Breathing New Life
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