Jacob Elordi, the star of Guillermo del Toro’s upcoming Frankenstein, revealed the challenging makeup routine required to become the Creature. The Australian actor explained in a recent Variety profile that the transformation process took about 10 hours daily on set, highlighting the intense physical and mental dedication involved in bringing the iconic monster to life.
Elordi described the extensive makeup application, noting the complexity and evolving nature of his costume as the character’s story unfolded. The actor explained,
“There’s so many different layers to the costume. When he’s born, he’s wearing nearly nothing. His chest is open and his head is high. Then, as he starts to experience pain, as we do as a teenager, he starts to hunch his shoulders. And as an adult, he closes off.” —Jacob Elordi
The near-constant hours in the makeup chair meant Elordi lost track of time during filming, focusing solely on the immersive experience. He mentioned,
I didn’t do breakfast, lunch or dinner, or think in terms of morning, afternoon, night. It was just one time. —Jacob Elordi
Guillermo del Toro praised Elordi’s commitment to the role, emphasizing the actor’s endurance through exhausting schedules. The director shared,
Never once did he come to me and complain, Never once did he come to me and say, ‘I’m tired. I’m hungry. Can I go?’ And he put in 20-hour days. —Guillermo del Toro, Director
Why Jacob Elordi Was Cast as Frankenstein’s Creature
Netflix released first-look images in July showcasing Elordi in full monster makeup, generating excitement for the film’s atmospheric retelling of Mary Shelley’s classic. Despite his convincing transformation, Elordi was not originally slated for the lead. In early 2024, the role was reassigned to him after Andrew Garfield exited due to conflicting schedules.
Del Toro revealed his reasons for selecting Elordi, especially highlighting the actor’s expressive eyes as a key factor in embodying the Creature’s humanity and complexity. He explained,
I saw Saltburn and I loved his innocence and openness, He plays the victim of a Tom Ripley-type of character and I thought he played it with a lot of range. His character was also capable of being high and cruel. Jacob’s eyes are so full of humanity. I cast him because of his eyes. —Guillermo del Toro, Director
The director’s choice hinges on Elordi’s ability to express vulnerability and intensity through subtle gestures, traits essential to portraying the Creature’s emotional journey.
Supporting Cast Brings Depth to the Frankenstein Narrative
Alongside Jacob Elordi’s portrayal of the monster, the cast includes Oscar Isaac as Dr. Victor Frankenstein, Mia Goth as Elizabeth Lavenza, and Christoph Waltz as Dr. Pretorius. Each actor adds layers to this reimagined Frankenstein story, promising a rich ensemble to complement Elordi’s central role.
Film Release Details and Anticipation
Guillermo del Toro’s Frankenstein is scheduled to premiere in select theaters on October 17, followed by a streaming release on Netflix on November 27. With Elordi’s intensive preparation and acclaimed makeup artistry, audiences can expect a haunting and visceral experience that redefines the Frankenstein legacy for modern viewers.
The exhaustive transformation process Jacob Elordi endured not only underscores his dedication but also sets a tone of authenticity and immersion for the film. This rigorous commitment foreshadows a significant performance that could resonate deeply with audiences and critics alike.
