Guillermo del Toro's Frankenstein: A 20-Year Journey to the Screen

Guillermo del Toro's lifelong fascination with Frankenstein is almost as legendary as the monster itself. A recent Netflix preview showcased a first glimpse of his highly anticipated adaptation, featuring Oscar Isaac as Victor Frankenstein. While a trailer won't be released until summer, a still image was unveiled (see above).

In a video message, del Toro revealed his decades-long dedication to this project, stating, "This film has been on my mind since I was a child—for 50 years. I’ve been trying to make it for 20 to 25 years. In fact, some people may even think I am a little bit obsessed with Frankenstein." He playfully gestured to his extensive Frankenstein collection within his Bleak House.

Limited footage was shown, offering a sneak peek at Isaac's Victor Frankenstein confronting Mia Goth's aristocratic character, and Jacob Elordi's portrayal of the monster—described as possessing "long black hair, stitched-up gray skin, and a glint of red in his eyes." This footage remains unavailable online.

Del Toro eloquently expressed the deeply personal nature of this undertaking: "Over the decades, the character has fused with my soul in a way that it has become an autobiography. It doesn’t get more personal than this.” His long-held ambition to bring Frankenstein to the screen is undeniable, making this Netflix adaptation a truly significant event.