The screenplay for Guillermo del Toro Frankenstein is now available for pre-order, giving fans early access to the director’s dark reinterpretation of Mary Shelley’s enduring tale. This rare opportunity comes just before the film’s official release, highlighting del Toro’s unique vision for the classic story.
Unlike typical screenplay releases that happen after a movie debuts, del Toro offers a near-contemporaneous glimpse into his creative process, blending horror, mythology, and emotional depth—elements that have defined his work in acclaimed films such as The Shape of Water and Pan’s Labyrinth.
Main Cast and Storyline Details
The film stars Oscar Isaac as the determined scientist who pushes the limits of life and death, bringing to existence a creature embodied by Jacob Elordi. This creation awakens with a consciousness that cannot be ended, confronting profound existential questions about identity and mortality.
Variety film critic Peter Debruge praised the adaptation, stating,
“this latest adaptation hews closer to the author’s intentions than any previous version put to screen.”
— Peter Debruge, Variety Film Critic
Del Toro’s Vision and Longstanding Development
Guillermo del Toro had envisioned his version of Frankenstein for many years, with Netflix eventually approving the project for production. In an interview at the Venice Film Festival, the director clarified his interpretation, emphasizing the story’s human aspects over typical horror themes. He reflected,
“The usual discourse of Frankenstein has to do with science gone awry. But for me, it’s about the human spirit. It’s not a cautionary tale: It’s about forgiveness, understanding and the importance of listening to each other.”
— Guillermo del Toro, Director
Release Plans and How to Access the Screenplay
Netflix will launch Frankenstein with a limited theatrical release on October 17, aiming for awards consideration, followed by streaming availability on November 7. The screenplay is now available for pre-order, providing a unique opportunity for film enthusiasts and scholars to study del Toro’s approach to this timeless narrative before viewing the film.
