Jacob Elordi’s prosthetic transformation into The Creature for Netflix’s gothic horror film Frankenstein has stunned audiences, requiring over 40 prosthetic pieces and a daily application process lasting up to 10 hours. Directed by Guillermo del Toro, the film is scheduled for release on November 7, presenting Elordi’s role as the monstrous being created by Victor Frankenstein in vivid detail.
Behind the Scenes: Crafting the Creature’s Authentic 19th-Century Appearance
Del Toro’s adaptation of Mary Shelley’s classic novel aims to evoke the 1800s era rather than a modern interpretation. To achieve this, prosthetics artist Mike Hill meticulously designed the Creature with deliberate imperfections and patchwork elements to reflect Victor Frankenstein’s experimental process. Hill explained,
“There are a few patchworks, a few mistakes, and this is what this body’s showing. We created this body. So you can literally see him bolting the leg together and extending this man to make him taller than an average human. What we decided is, if you were going to create a man, you wouldn’t go and get 10 bodies and someone together. What’s the point? You’d get the very best body you can get.”
Elordi’s transformation involved 42 prosthetic pieces, including 14 applied to his head and neck. Each session for applying the prosthetics lasted 10 hours and required a team of eight artists. This extensive process was repeated 50 times throughout filming to bring the terrifying monster to life.
A Glimpse into the Film’s Production Design and Immersive Exhibit
Besides the remarkable prosthetics, the film’s production design also impresses with intricate handmade sets. Among them is a massive ship named The Horisont, measuring over 130 feet. To provide fans closer insight into this craftsmanship, Netflix hosts Frankenstein: Crafting a Tale Eternal, an immersive exhibit open to the public until November 9. Visitors can explore the artistry of production designer Tamara Deverell, prosthetics expert Mike Hill, and costume designer Kate Hawley, gaining a deeper appreciation for the film’s elaborate creation process.
The Film’s Premier Cast and Critical Reception
Aside from Elordi, Frankenstein features acclaimed actors Oscar Isaac as Victor Frankenstein, Mia Goth, Christoph Waltz, and Ralph Ineson. Early reviews have praised del Toro’s latest work, awarding the film an 83% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. This project stands as a significant milestone, notably marking del Toro’s last directorial effort for the foreseeable future, which has heightened anticipation among horror enthusiasts eager to see his final vision on screen.
Significance of the Transformation and What Lies Ahead
Elordi’s demanding prosthetic transformation highlights the dedication involved in creating a believable monster that honors the original novel’s spirit while delivering a fresh, immersive horror experience. With the film’s release imminent and the public exhibit ongoing, fans have a unique opportunity to witness the merging of visionary direction, meticulous artistry, and intense acting that define this adaptation of Frankenstein’s timeless story.
