Acclaimed filmmaker Guillermo del Toro's latest cinematic offering, Frankenstein, has finally made its digital debut on Netflix, and early reactions suggest the director has delivered another masterpiece. The film, which adapts Mary Shelley's classic gothic novel, features an all-star cast including Oscar Isaac, Jacob Elordi, and Christoph Waltz.
Social Media Erupts with Praise
Since the film began streaming on November 7, social media platform X (formerly Twitter) has been flooded with overwhelmingly positive responses from viewers worldwide. Many have hailed the film as a visual and emotional triumph that redefines the classic monster story for modern audiences.
One enthusiastic viewer declared the film a "masterpiece", writing: "WHAT A MASTERPIECE! this new film shows frankenstein's more human side in a beautifully poetic way that visually transported me to a gothic world, with a solid and emotionally compelling narrative, masterful performances and an ending that feels like a hug to the heart."
Another detailed review praised the film's dedication to cinematic art: "Just saw Frankenstein today. I had hopes for this movie, but man, this was a dedication to the love of art of film itself. The beautiful portrayal of characters, the arc of Victor from being bright and lost to being visionary and then losing it all again to insanity, Elizabeth steering the course of the plot, among others."
Jacob Elordi's Career-Defining Performance
Among the film's many praised elements, Jacob Elordi's portrayal of the Creature has emerged as a particular highlight, with many calling it his finest work to date. Reviewers have been deeply moved by his emotional interpretation of the classic character.
One fan elaborated: "And Frankenstein, the character that was expected to show the least emotions was the purest and most emotional being. His journey of childlike wonder and faith, to his heartbreaking discovery of himself and then his disdain of his creator's hatred towards him with finally forgiving him and moving on to a life that he so dearly wants to end, Jacob Elordi's finest work up till now."
The review also highlighted the strong supporting cast, noting that Oscar Isaac and Christoph Waltz brought their characteristic charisma and charm to the production, while Mia Goth's subtle yet deep portrayal added significant emotional weight to the narrative.
Visual Poetry and Technical Brilliance
True to del Toro's signature style, the film's visual elements have received exceptional praise, with many noting the breathtaking cinematography and production design that create an immersive gothic atmosphere.
One viewer specifically highlighted the technical achievements: "But the set designs, the cinematography, the lighting set the movie on a different platform altogether; this was a visual poetry, an ode to filmmaking itself."
The emotional impact of the film has proven so powerful that it inspired at least one viewer to break their usual habits: "Just watched Frankenstein, ended up writing a review on letterboxd which I've never done (I did for Interstellar but just said 'best film I've ever watched' and called it a day) but wow... WOW... I'm absolutely in love with this film."
From Venice Premiere to Global Recognition
Frankenstein first made its world premiere at the prestigious 82nd Venice International Film Festival on August 30, generating significant buzz in the international film community. The film subsequently received a limited theatrical release on October 17 before its current global digital availability through Netflix starting November 7.
The digital release has catapulted the film to worldwide recognition, allowing audiences across India and beyond to experience del Toro's unique vision for this timeless story. The director's reinterpretation emphasizes the humanity and emotional depth of Shelley's original creation while maintaining the gothic horror elements that have made the story endure for centuries.
