Oscar Isaac stars as Victor Frankenstein in Guillermo del Toro's haunting new adaptation, coming to Netflix in November 2025.
Oscar Isaac stars as Victor Frankenstein in Netflix’s Frankenstein, a new adaptation directed by Guillermo del Toro and set to debut in November 2025. The film—announced at Netflix Tudum 2025—presents a dark, atmospheric reimagining, with gothic overtones and an unconventional approach, creating significant anticipation for its release.
Guillermo del Toro’s Vision for Frankenstein
Guillermo del Toro has pursued his dream of adapting Mary Shelley’s iconic novel for years, and Netflix’s version promises to stay true to his signature style. The director describes the film as
“the culmination of a journey that has occupied most of my life.”
—Guillermo del Toro, Director. He emphasized the personal importance of monsters as a motif, declaring,
“Monsters have become my personal belief system.”
—Guillermo del Toro, Director. For del Toro, Shelley’s story is nothing less than a foundational work, a “holy text” in his creative journey.
Star-Studded Cast Brings Classic Characters to Life
This new film features an ensemble cast resonating with fans of both gothic film and contemporary cinema. In addition to Oscar Isaac as Victor Frankenstein, Jacob Elordi takes on the role of the Monster, following the exit of Andrew Garfield due to scheduling conflicts. Mia Goth plays Elizabeth, Christoph Waltz stars as Dr. Pretorious, while Felix Kammerer, Lars Mikkelsen, David Bradley, Christian Convery, Charles Dance, and Ralph Ineson comprise the large supporting cast.
Unique Setting and Story Direction
Rather than offering a straightforward retelling, del Toro has chosen a distinct narrative. The film is set decades after Frankenstein’s supposed demise, focused on Dr. Pretorious’s search for the creature, thought to have outlived a catastrophic fire forty years earlier. The backdrop shifts to 19th-century Eastern Europe, draped in an atmosphere of mystery, decay, and subtle terror. Del Toro suggested in a discussion published by Vanity Fair,
Image of: Oscar Isaac
“Gothic romance was born partially out of the fascination with ruins. Sometimes they’re more beautiful than the building complete because it’s the clash of creation and destruction.”
—Guillermo del Toro, Director.
Anticipation Builds Ahead of Premiere
Filming for Netflix’s Frankenstein concluded in September 2024 after an extensive production process that began in February. Though an exact streaming date has yet to be given, insiders hint at a major festival unveiling, possibly at Venice, ahead of its wide release. The initial teaser, presented at Tudum 2025, showcased haunting visuals and suggested a story at once chilling and deeply human, reinforcing the film’s fresh approach to a well-known tale.
Impact and What Awaits Viewers
The arrival of Oscar Isaac as Victor Frankenstein in Netflix’s Frankenstein is poised to influence both modern horror and the portrayal of Mary Shelley’s original characters, with a promise of gothic romance, tragedy, and a new vision from one of cinema’s most celebrated directors. The unique casting, intense atmosphere, and narrative shift suggest this adaptation could set a new benchmark for literary horror on screen.
