Guillermo del Toro’s “Frankenstein” is now streaming on Netflix. His interpretation of Mary Shelley’s novel earned praise from critics. Recently, it’s been nominated at the 83rd Golden Globes Awards for “Best Drama.” Now that’s its Awards Season, I wanna share my thoughts on Guillermo’s version if it’s a legit adaptation like Kenneth Branagh’s version from 1994. By the way, Jacob Elordi will reprise his role as Nate Jacobs on HBO’s long awaited third season of “Euphoria.” It’ll air in April, 2026.
It doesn’t matter if SPOILERS are present. We’re all fully aware of Frankenstein.
Alive & Dead Aspects
Alive: Oscar Isaac & Jacob Elordi both did a good job for their respective performances.
Other Cast Members such as Mia Goth, David Bradley (Filch from Harry Potter) Lars Mikkelsen, Charles Dance, Ralph Ineson & Christoph Waltz all did a solid job for their respective performances.
Alexsandre Desplat (The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, Moonrise Kingdom, Isle of Dogs) orchestrated the soundtrack.
Practical Effects were heavily involved while Visual Effects were used sparingly.
Set Pieces and Costume Designs were manually crafted.
Prosthetic Makeup transformed Jacob into The Monster.
Cinematography’s shot in stable good condition.
Dead: Guillermo del Toro didn’t do a good job adapting Mary Shelley’s novel.
Victor never utters out the famous line, “IT’s ALIVE!” That’s like Hulk never saying his catchphrase, “HULK SMASH!”
Although labeled as a horror film, it lacks legit scares. I didn’t get scared. Not one little bit.
The Monster’s appearance doesn’t look like a creature made from various body parts. He looks like the love child of Abe Sapien (from Hellboy) and Guardians of the Galaxy member, Nebula.
The roles between Victor and The Monster are completely backwards. The former acts abrasive towards him. The latter is supposed to be a failed experiment Victor regrets who doesn’t know any better. The 1994 version told better characterization between the two. The 2025 version of the pair feels outta character. Guillermo did ‘em dirty.
Victor’s perspective in the first act felt bloated. The Monster’s perspective couldn’t help the slow pace. I was bored since Victor told his story. I’d rather watch Jerry Lewis’ force ghost hosting a telethon.
A downgrade over Victor’s chemistry with Elizabeth. It’s like a slap in the face to the source material. They’re supposed to be a couple. I never cared about ‘em. The 1994 version is more compelling.
The Final Verdict: D, FOR DINGBAT!
I can’t believe I’m saying this, Guillermo del Toro made a really big boo boo. His interpretation pales in comparison to Kenneth Branagh’s version. I expected Guillermo to make a great adaptation. Unfortunately, it was a complete waste of time. Do not waste your spare time on Guillermo’s version. Stick to Kenneth’s interpretation. If you wanna see an actual good horror movie in recent years, check out “Sinners.” If Frankenstein’s nominated at the 2026 Oscars for “Best Picture,” I’m so gonna be annoyed. I’m setting my expectations towards Christian Bale’s “The Bride” super low. I doubt it’ll be as good as the 1994 version.
Nickthemoviecritic.com 