Guillermo del Toro’s adaptation of **Frankenstein** has arrived on Netflix, marking a significant reinterpretation of **Mary Shelley**’s original novel. Released on **October 17, 2025**, after a brief theatrical run, the film dives into themes of creation, responsibility, and the relationship between fathers and sons. Set against the backdrop of the **Crimean War**, the movie reimagines the classic tale, making notable departures from the source material.
One of the most striking changes in the film is the tragic backstory of **Victor Frankenstein**, portrayed by **Oscar Isaac**. Unlike the novel, where Victor’s home life is depicted as supportive and nurturing, del Toro presents a much darker narrative. In the film, Victor’s father, **Leopold Frankenstein**, played by **Charles Dance**, is abusive, shaping Victor’s psyche and leading to his monstrous actions. This shift emphasizes the theme of the “sins of the father,” suggesting that Victor’s own failings are rooted in his upbringing, a departure from Shelley’s portrayal of a loving familial environment.
The film’s setting also diverges from the original timeline. While Shelley’s novel unfolds in the early 19th century, del Toro moves the story to **1855**, a time when Victor’s experiments can draw upon the bodies of fallen soldiers from the Crimean War. This adjustment not only aligns the story with the **Victorian era** but also adds a layer of historical context that enhances the horror elements of the narrative.
In a significant deviation, del Toro introduces a new character, **Henrich Harlander**, a war profiteer who becomes Victor’s benefactor. This character does not exist in Shelley’s work and serves to provide Victor with resources for his experiments. Harlander’s character reflects the themes of ambition and exploitation present in both the novel and contemporary society.
The absence of key characters from the original novel is another notable change. **Justine**, a pivotal figure who suffers greatly due to Victor’s negligence, is entirely omitted. In Shelley’s narrative, Justine is wrongfully accused of murder, and Victor’s failure to protect her adds to the novel’s exploration of moral responsibility. The film’s decision to exclude her story diminishes the moral weight of Victor’s actions.
The portrayal of the **Creature**, played by **Jacob Elordi**, also undergoes significant transformation. Del Toro’s film presents a more sympathetic version of the Creature, allowing audiences to connect with its plight. Unlike the novel, where the Creature is often viewed as a malevolent force, the film delves into its emotional struggles, showcasing moments of vulnerability and a yearning for companionship.
Another major divergence involves **Elizabeth**, Victor’s love interest. In the original novel, she represents a source of comfort and encouragement for Victor. In contrast, del Toro crafts a different dynamic; Elizabeth is not Victor’s cousin and is instead the niece of Harlander. This revision alters their relationship, introducing conflict between their differing perspectives on life and death. Elizabeth becomes more of a contrasting figure, fascinated by the living while Victor is obsessed with resurrection.
The film also omits the infamous “Bride” character. In the novel, Victor initially agrees to create a companion for the Creature, a subplot that is eradicated in del Toro’s version. Instead, Elizabeth’s role expands to fill this void, complicating the Creature’s desires and motivations.
Del Toro emphasizes the creation process with greater focus than Shelley, dedicating significant screen time to Victor’s experiments and struggles before the Creature comes to life. This choice shifts the narrative’s emphasis from the consequences of creation to the act of creation itself, reflecting modern cinematic trends that prioritize visual storytelling.
The conclusion of the film introduces a profound shift in the relationship between Victor and the Creature. Unlike the novel, where Victor dies consumed by rage and vengeance, del Toro allows for a moment of reconciliation. As Victor seeks the Creature’s forgiveness, they share a poignant moment of understanding, fundamentally altering the emotional landscape of the story.
In summary, Guillermo del Toro’s **Frankenstein** reinterprets the classic tale, making significant changes that reflect both contemporary themes and the director’s unique vision. By altering character dynamics, timelines, and key plot points, the film offers a fresh perspective on a story that has captivated audiences for over two centuries. As viewers engage with this dark retelling, they are invited to reflect on the timeless questions of creation, responsibility, and the nature of humanity.