Guillermo del Toro‘s Frankenstein adaptation with epic scale is generating excitement among fans and cast alike, as Mia Goth shares her insights into the film‘s ambitious vision and emotional depth. Speaking at Netflix’s TUDUM 2025 event, Goth discussed her role and her thoughts on how the adaptation combines spectacle with heartfelt storytelling.
Mia Goth Reflects on Portraying Elizabeth Lavenza
Mia Goth, known for her performances in “A Cure For Wellness” and “MaXXXine,” takes on the role of Elizabeth Lavenza, the fiancée of Victor Frankenstein, in del Toro’s new adaptation. Victor Frankenstein is played by Oscar Isaac, adding further star power to this anticipated project. Goth described her experience and what viewers can expect from this interpretation of Mary Shelley’s classic tale.
When questioned about whether audiences would be surprised or find the film familiar, Goth indicated both feelings apply. She explained,
“I think people are going to love how epic it is, and the scale of it, it’s such a feast. But I think they will also be incredibly moved by it and maybe surprised by how much heart went into this. It’s a lifelong project for Guillermo.”
—Mia Goth, Actress
Jacob Elordi’s Transformation as Frankenstein’s Monster
Mia Goth expressed deep admiration upon seeing Jacob Elordi, recognized from “Euphoria” and “Priscilla,” in full makeup and costume as the Monster for the first time. Her reaction spoke to the powerful impression Elordi’s portrayal left on the cast. She said,
“Amazed. Totally amazed and just in awe really,”
—Mia Goth, Actress and continued,
“And just having this deep feeling of knowing, ‘Well, this is going to work.’ He’s done such a beautiful job with the movie, and I think people are going to love him.”
—Mia Goth, Actress
Guillermo del Toro’s Personal Approach to Frankenstein
Guillermo del Toro, known for films like “Pacific Rim” and “The Shape of Water,” has emphasized that this project is deeply personal. He explained that he does not approach his adaptation primarily as a horror film. In del Toro’s words,
“Somebody asked me the other day, does it have really scary scenes?”
—Guillermo del Toro, Director. He reflected further,
“For the first time, I considered that. It’s an emotional story for me. It’s as personal as anything. I’m asking a question about being a father, being a son… I’m not doing a horror movie — ever. I’m not trying to do that.”
—Guillermo del Toro, Director
A Cast of Notable Talent
The cast assembled for Netflix’s Frankenstein features an array of acclaimed actors. In addition to Oscar Isaac as Victor Frankenstein, Jacob Elordi plays the Monster. Mia Goth appears as Elizabeth Lavenza, with Christoph Waltz as Dr. Pretorious, Lars Mikkelsen portraying Captain Anderson, and Ralph Ineson as Professor Kempre. This ensemble brings together talent from films and series such as “Django Unchained,” “The Witcher,” “Ahsoka,” and “The Creator.”
Release and Competing Adaptations
The release of Guillermo del Toro’s Frankenstein is scheduled for November 2025, though a specific date has yet to be announced. Its arrival is set to precede a separate adaptation directed by Maggie Gyllenhaal, which debuts in early 2026. Gyllenhaal’s film, featuring Jessie Buckley, Christian Bale, Penélope Cruz, Peter Sarsgaard, and Annette Bening, will be set in 1930s Chicago, offering audiences two distinct takes on Shelley’s enduring tale within months of each other.
Plot Overview and Setting
The narrative for del Toro’s version takes place in 19th-century Eastern Europe, focusing on Dr. Pretorious, portrayed by Christoph Waltz. Pretorious must search for Frankenstein’s monster, believed to have perished in a fire decades earlier, to continue Dr. Victor Frankenstein’s experiments. This direction provides a new perspective on the familiar source material, while still centering key figures such as Elizabeth Lavenza and Victor Frankenstein.
What to Expect from This New Interpretation
As anticipation builds, both the cast’s enthusiasm and Guillermo del Toro’s personal connection to the story suggest that this Frankenstein will blend large-scale visuals with intimate emotion. With its November 2025 release set on Netflix, viewers can expect a film that reimagines Mary Shelley’s novel with fresh insight and heartfelt ambition.
