Guillermo del Toro’s long-awaited adaptation of Frankenstein is set to premiere on Netflix in November 2025. This gothic science fiction horror film promises a fresh and emotionally resonant take on Mary Shelley’s classic novel.
Del Toro, renowned for his visually rich and emotionally layered storytelling in films like Pan’s Labyrinth and The Shape of Water, has been developing this adaptation for over a decade. He aims to stay faithful to Shelley’s 1818 novel, emphasizing the emotional depth and moral complexities of the story over traditional horror elements. Del Toro describes the film as an “incredibly emotional story” rather than a conventional horror movie.
Del Toro’s Frankenstein is expected to adhere closely to the original novel, including scenes set in the Arctic where Victor pursues his creation. The film delves into themes of creation, responsibility, and the consequences of playing god, aiming to explore the psychological and emotional dimensions of both creator and creation.
Filming commenced in February 2024 in Toronto and concluded in September 2024, with additional scenes shot in Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile. Del Toro collaborated with cinematographer Dan Laustsen and composer Alexandre Desplat to craft the film’s atmospheric visuals and lyrical score.
Frankenstein is slated for a Netflix release in November 2025. While an exact date has not been announced, the film is expected to have a limited theatrical run prior to its streaming debut, allowing audiences to experience its gothic visuals on the big screen.
Cast in Frankenstein
- Oscar Isaac as Dr. Victor Frankenstein, the ambitious scientist whose quest to conquer death leads to unforeseen consequences.
- Jacob Elordi portrays the Creature, bringing a blend of vulnerability and menace to the role.
- Mia Goth plays Elizabeth Lavenza, Victor’s fiancée, adding emotional depth to the narrative.
- Christoph Waltz takes on the role of Dr. Pretorius, a character pursuing the Creature to continue Frankenstein’s experiments.
- Additional cast members include Felix Kammerer as William, Lars Mikkelsen as Captain Anderson, David Bradley as the Blind Man, Charles Dance, Ralph Ineson as Professor Krempe, and Christian Convery as young Victor.
With its combination of a visionary director, a talented cast, and a commitment to honoring the source material, Guillermo del Toro’s Frankenstein stands as one of the most anticipated films of 2025. Audiences can look forward to a compelling exploration of humanity, ambition, and the consequences of creation.
