Netflix has scored a major success in 2025 with Guillermo del Toro Frankenstein capturing viewers’ attention immediately after its release. Debuting on November 7, 2025, the film quickly rose to number one on the U.S. Netflix streaming platform, marking another achievement for the acclaimed filmmaker.
The movie stars Oscar Isaac as Baron Victor Frankenstein and Jacob Elordi as the Creature, bringing to life Mary Shelley’s iconic novel with fresh intensity. This new adaptation complements del Toro’s reputation for blending rich storytelling with striking visuals, appealing to both longtime fans and new audiences alike.
Streaming Rankings and Critical Acclaim
Following Guillermo del Toro Frankenstein at the top of Netflix’s current lineup are KPop Demon Hunters at number two and the popular comedy The Hangover at number three. Original productions also fill the list, with Rebecca Ferguson’s A House of Dynamite at number four and Tyler Perry’s A Madea Christmas at number five, while Bride Wars rounds out the top six.
The film has been well-received critically, achieving an 85% score from critics on Rotten Tomatoes, while viewers have rated it even higher at 95%. Before its Netflix debut, Frankenstein had a limited theatrical run in October 2025, further building anticipation and praise for the project.
Key Cast and Roles in the Film
The story centers on the complex relationship between the scientist and his creation. Oscar Isaac portrays the brilliant but tormented Victor Frankenstein, while Jacob Elordi embodies the Creature, capturing the character’s tragic existence. Supporting roles include Mia Goth as Lady Elizabeth Harlander, and Felix Kammerer as William Frankenstein, the scientist’s younger brother, adding emotional depth to the narrative.
Reception and Artistic Highlights
Reviews highlight del Toro’s technical mastery and visual storytelling. A ScreenRant critique described the film as
“a staggering technical accomplishment that blends inventive camerawork with luscious production design.”
The review also noted that
“the Netflix budget has clearly been put to good use, as the director crafts some immense set pieces that feel spiritually torn from Mary Shelley’s mind.”
Netflix characterizes the film as
“the definitive retelling of Mary Shelley’s genre-defining novel of life and death — an epic drama about what it means to be human, to crave love, and seek understanding. Golden Globe-winner Oscar Isaac plays the brilliant but tortured scientist Victor Frankenstein, who embarks on an ego-driven quest to bring new life into this world, resulting in the Creature (BAFTA-nominee Jacob Elordi), whose very existence provokes questions about what it means to be a human and what it really means to be a monster.”
Impact and Availability
Guillermo del Toro’s Frankenstein marks a significant entry in modern cinema by revisiting a classic tale with fresh vision and emotional resonance. Its success on Netflix not only demonstrates the platform’s strength in showcasing high-quality originals but also ensures that this interpretation of Frankenstein will reach a wide audience worldwide. Fans of del Toro and literary adaptations alike can now stream the film globally, where its exploration of humanity and monstrosity continues to inspire discussion and admiration.
