Guillermo del Toro’s adaptation of Frankenstein is an intriguing reimagining of Mary Shelley’s iconic gothic narrative, infused with new characters and subplots that enhance the original story. As a passionate advocate of both the novel and its various interpretations, del Toro weaves elements of Shelley’s tale throughout his body of work, including notable references in his 2022 stop-motion adaptation of Pinocchio.
The filmmaker’s latest venture brings a big-budget Netflix production to life, featuring a star-studded cast, including Oscar Isaac, Mia Goth, and Jacob Elordi in the titular role of the Creature. Reviews characterize it as “less a retelling and more a re-imagining of the classic gothic horror, ” highlighting significant changes throughout the narrative. However, be warned: SPOILERS will follow as we explore the five most compelling alterations.
1. A Mother’s Tragic Demise
In Shelley’s work, Victor Frankenstein’s mother succumbs to scarlet fever, and her death profoundly influences his ambition to pursue life beyond death. The film takes a different route, depicting her as dying during childbirth while bringing forth Victor’s brother, William. This change not only deepens Victor’s motivations but also introduces an ironic twist, as the Creature subsequently kills William, completing a tragic cycle of death and creation.
2. The Wealthy Benefactor
Henrich Harlander, portrayed by Christoph Waltz, is a new character in this adaptation. As a prosperous arms dealer, Harlander finances Victor’s experimentation by providing essential resources. However, his true motives are revealed when he asks Victor to implant his brain into the Creature after suffering from syphilis. A violent altercation ensues, culminating in Harlander’s demise, thereby heightening the dramatic stakes of Victor’s scientific hubris.
3. A Creature with Healing Powers
Different from the original portrayal, the Creature in del Toro’s version resembles a superhero, exhibiting indestructibility akin to Wolverine. Early scenes depict sailors’ bullets having negligible impact on him, while later moments demonstrate his ability to heal rapidly. This newfound trait contributes to a sense of a sad “never-ending life, ” amplifying his tragic existence and internal struggles.
4. Freudian Complexities
Mia Goth’s dual performance as both Victor’s mother and his fiancée Elizabeth enriches the narrative with intricate Freudian themes. Unlike the novel where Elizabeth is a victim of jealousy, in the film, her emotional arc shifts toward resentment against Victor. This culminates in the tragic event where Victor accidentally kills her while attempting to shoot the Creature, ultimately shifting the perception of the Creature from a villain to a tragic figure.
5. Revisiting Education and Growth
The theme of education emerges powerfully throughout this adaptation. Unlike the book, Victor is deeply involved in the Creature’s life post-birth, witnessing its physical strength devoid of mental development. This drives him to attempt to destroy the Creature in an explosion that he survives but loses a leg in the process. In a poignant shift, the Creature finds a supportive mentor in a blind man, offering him the understanding and kindness that Victor lacked, leading to his significant emotional growth.
6. An Alternative Ending Explained
While the endings of both the film and the novel share similarities, they convey distinct messages. In the original text, Victor perishes while hunting the Creature to the Arctic, ultimately recognizing his flawed ambition. The Creature, upon discovering Victor’s lifeless body, reflects on the torment engineered by his quest for vengeance and solitude. Conversely, in del Toro’s adaptation, an emotional reconciliation occurs between the two before Victor’s death. This moment humanizes the Creature, who, faced with eternal loneliness, sees no chance for companionship as he embarks on his continuous journey into isolation. The film concludes with a poignant quote from Lord Byron: “And thus the heart will break, but brokenly lives on, ” reinforcing the film’s exploration of grief and resilience.
Catch Guillermo del Toro’s Frankenstein, currently in theaters, with a Netflix release set for November 7, 2026.
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