Ah, Frankenstein, the epic tale. It almost feels like a myth passed down thousands of years, rather than coming from the presumably seriously twisted mind of Mary Shelley back in 1818.

Now, it’s after getting the Netflix treatment. Frankenstein is a 2025 American Gothic science fiction film produced, written, and directed by Guillermo del Toro. It is a breathtaking reinterpretation of Mary Shelley’s iconic novel—faithful to its emotional core, yet bold enough to stand confidently as its own work.

From the start, the film establishes a chilling, immersive atmosphere that pulls you into a world where life, death, ambition, and heartbreak intertwine. It’s more than just a monster story—it’s a profound exploration of what it means to be human, and the cost of creating something you can’t control.

You see events unfold from two perspectives: the creator and the monster. In a way, they are each other’s mirrors. One is beautiful on the inside, hideous on the outside. The other is the opposite.

The acting is of a high quality. Oscar Isaac as Victor, the creator, and Jacob Elordi as the monster give powerful performances.

Even though it is a long film, many of the minor relationships feel rushed. Victor falling in love with his brother’s fiancée, and the brothers’ relationship misses the mark. The scene where the fiancée professes her love for Frankenstein is nonsensical. I can only presume important scenes were cut.

For that reason, it’s only three stars out of five from me. Read the book, it’s a classic.

Have you seen it? Let me know in the comments.