Jacob Elordi embodies a stunningly beautiful Frankenstein Monster. [Image Source: TEENVOGUE]
A new promotional image has offered fans the clearest glimpse yet of Jacob Elordi portraying the creature in Guillermo del Toro’s upcoming Frankenstein film. Although a trailer has yet to surface for the Netflix project, this latest still captures the Monster from behind as he approaches Elizabeth Lavenza, played by Mia Goth, who also portrays Victor Frankenstein’s mother in the movie. The image provides valuable insight into the character’s design, moving beyond previous shots where the creature’s face was largely hidden.
A Unique Interpretation Staying True to Mary Shelley’s Original Vision
Director Guillermo del Toro has emphasized that this adaptation of the creature will differ notably from past depictions. Rather than the familiar grotesque and stitched-together figure, del Toro’s Monster is described as “staggeringly beautiful,” aligning more closely with Mary Shelley’s original literary description. The creature’s appearance is intended to evoke the image of a newborn being, with smooth, alabaster skin and elegant scars that almost seem aerodynamic, presenting a refined rather than monstrous visage.
Artistry and Emotional Depth Underpin Elordi’s Performance
Guillermo del Toro highlighted the blend of artistry and science in Victor Frankenstein’s character, underlining how the ambitious scientist’s lifelong dream shapes the creature’s form. In an interview with EW, he said,
“Victor is as much an artist as he is a surgeon, and if he’s been dreaming about this creature for all his life, he’s going to nail it,”
del Toro mentioned.
Image of: Jacob Elordi
“It looks like a newborn, alabaster creature. The scars are beautiful and almost aerodynamic.”
Del Toro further explained the importance of portraying the creature’s emotional growth throughout the story. He remarked,
“One of the things I thought needed the most intelligence, emotionally, was to track the evolution of the creature,”
adding,
“He said something to me that was touching and real: ‘This creature is more me than me. And people don’t know that, and I’m going to be able to be myself through this.’ He brought a truth to this performance that’s really something to behold.”
Plot Overview and Release Dates for the Frankenstein Film
The film centers on the renowned yet prideful scientist Victor Frankenstein, played by Oscar Isaac, who succeeds in creating life through an ambitious experiment. This act, however, sets in motion a tragic chain of events that impacts both the creator and his creation. Mia Goth’s dual role as Elizabeth Lavenza and Victor’s mother enriches the narrative’s complexity. According to del Toro, the project has a deeply personal significance, recalling his childhood encounter with classic Frankenstein films:
“This film concludes a quest that started at age 7, when I saw James Whale’s Frankenstein films for the first time. I felt the jolt of recognition in that seminal moment: Gothic horror became my church, and Boris Karloff my Messiah,”
he stated when the movie was announced.
Frankenstein is scheduled for a limited theatrical release beginning October 17, followed by a worldwide debut on Netflix on November 7.
Implications of Del Toro’s Vision for Frankenstein’s Legacy
This interpretation promises to offer a fresh perspective on a classic story, highlighting the Monster’s humanity and emotional depth instead of horror alone. Jacob Elordi’s portrayal, guided by Guillermo del Toro’s artistic vision, may redefine how audiences perceive the iconic character while staying true to the essence of Mary Shelley’s novel. The film’s upcoming release is highly anticipated both for its innovative design and the emotional authenticity it aims to bring to this timeless tale.
New look at Guillermo del Toro’s #Frankenstein starring Mia Goth and Jacob Elordi.
