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

Guillermo del Toro's passion for Frankenstein is as intense as the iconic character's own obsession with life and death. At the recent Next on Netflix preview event, the acclaimed writer-director shared a tantalizing glimpse into his much-anticipated adaptation of the classic tale. While fans will have to wait until summer for the trailer, Netflix unveiled an exclusive first-look image of Oscar Isaac embodying the legendary mad scientist, Dr. Frankenstein.

In a video message, del Toro revealed the depth of his connection to the 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." As he spoke, he gestured towards the array of Frankenstein memorabilia in his renowned Bleak House, underscoring his lifelong fascination.

Del Toro also teased some exclusive footage, showcasing Oscar Isaac's Victor Frankenstein in a tense confrontation with Mia Goth, who plays a sophisticated aristocrat. Additionally, viewers caught a glimpse of Jacob Elordi as the iconic Frankenstein's monster, characterized by long black hair, stitched-up gray skin, and a striking red glint in his eyes. Unfortunately, this footage is not yet available online.

Reflecting on his personal connection to the story, del Toro remarked, "You see, 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 dedication to bringing Frankenstein to life on screen is a testament to the profound impact the story has had on him.

Del Toro's journey to adapt Frankenstein has been long and arduous, mirroring the perseverance of the character he so admires. As we await further details on this highly personal project, it's clear that del Toro's vision will offer a unique and deeply felt interpretation of Mary Shelley's timeless tale.