Netflix thrilled fans on Monday, July 28, 2025, by releasing exclusive images of Frankenstein, a new adaptation of Mary Shelley’s classic directed by Guillermo del Toro. The film, promising a visceral and emotional approach, features Jacob Elordi as the creature and Oscar Isaac as scientist Victor Frankenstein. The photos, published by Vanity Fair, showcase Elordi in a striking performance, with visuals highlighting Del Toro’s unique vision. The movie, also starring Mia Goth, will premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) from September 4 to 14, before hitting the streaming platform in November. The production is a major highlight for Netflix’s second half of 2025, strengthening the director’s partnership with the platform. Its mature rating, due to violent and grotesque scenes, signals a darker, more mature tone for the reimagining.
The image reveal sparked excitement on social media, with fans praising Elordi’s casting as the creature. The Australian actor, known for roles in Euphoria and Saltburn, appears to deliver an intense physical and emotional performance. Here are some highlights from the released images:
- Jacob Elordi sports scars and features blending humanity and monstrosity.
- Mia Goth appears in varied looks, hinting at a multifaceted role.
- Del Toro’s aesthetic mixes gothic elements with modern touches.
Jacob Elordi as Frankenstein’s monster in Guillermo del Toro’s ‘FRANKENSTEIN’
— DiscussingFilm (@DiscussingFilm) July 28, 2025
(Source: https://t.co/NUc0vyXgKV) pic.twitter.com/AnQal4kf11
Guillermo del Toro’s unique vision
Guillermo del Toro, renowned for films like Pan’s Labyrinth and The Shape of Water, brings his signature visual and narrative style to Frankenstein. The Mexican director is known for exploring themes of acceptance, isolation, and the complexity of the human condition, which seem evident in this adaptation. Casting Jacob Elordi as the creature reflects Del Toro’s intent to humanize the monster, emphasizing its tragedy and emotional depth. The director praised Elordi’s connection to the role, noting his ability to convey vulnerability and strength.
The film aims to stay true to the essence of Mary Shelley’s 1818 novel while offering a contemporary approach. The classic story, which follows Victor Frankenstein’s creation of a creature and the consequences of his unchecked ambition, gains new life under Del Toro’s direction. The production blends gothic horror with an emotional narrative, exploring the conflict between creator and creation. The released images suggest meticulous attention to visual details, with moody settings and cinematography that enhances the melancholic tone.
Jacob Elordi in the spotlight
At 28, Jacob Elordi solidifies his rise in Hollywood with the role of the creature. The Australian actor, who rose to fame in youth-oriented series and films, now takes on a denser challenge. His physical transformation, with detailed prosthetics and makeup, stands out in the images. Elordi’s casting sparked curiosity, given his history of charismatic roles, but the photos show an interpretation that avoids stereotypes, portraying a complex and multifaceted creature.
The stellar cast also includes Mia Goth, who appears in distinct looks, suggesting an enigmatic role. Goth, known for intense performances in films like X and Pearl, seems to be a key piece of the narrative. Oscar Isaac, as Victor Frankenstein, brings dramatic weight to the scientist obsessed with defying nature’s laws. According to Del Toro, the cast’s chemistry was crucial in capturing the story’s essence.
- Key aspects of Elordi’s performance:
- Physical transformation with realistic prosthetics.
- Expression of conflicting emotions, like rage and vulnerability.
- Integration with Del Toro’s signature visual style.
- Contrast with previous roles, showcasing versatility.
Premiere at Toronto Film Festival
The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), held from September 4 to 14, 2025, will be the first chance for audiences to see Frankenstein in action. Marking its 50th edition, the festival is known for spotlighting films that shine during awards season. The TIFF premiere underscores the project’s ambition, blending commercial appeal with artistic depth. The screening also builds anticipation for the film’s Netflix debut in November, likely drawing both horror fans and Del Toro enthusiasts.
The production is already touted as one of 2025’s most anticipated releases, with speculation about awards potential. Its mature rating, due to violent and grotesque scenes, suggests the film won’t shy away from intense moments. With an estimated runtime of about two hours, Del Toro has room to explore the narrative deeply without sacrificing pace.
Partnership with Netflix
Guillermo del Toro’s collaboration with Netflix is well-established, with projects like the critically acclaimed Pinocchio already under their belt. Frankenstein strengthens this partnership, with Netflix banking on the film to attract subscribers. The strategy of releasing exclusive images through Vanity Fair and promoting the film at TIFF reflects Netflix’s investment in building hype.
The images highlight the production’s attention to detail, from costumes to makeup. Elordi’s creature, for instance, blends classic Frankenstein elements with a modern twist, avoiding caricatures. Mia Goth’s scenes suggest a complex character, possibly tied to the story’s emotional core.
- Production strengths:
- Guillermo del Toro’s auteur direction.
- High-caliber cast with Jacob Elordi, Mia Goth, and Oscar Isaac.
- Visual aesthetic blending gothic horror and modernity.
- Netflix’s backing for a global release.
Fan and critic expectations
The image release triggered a wave of social media buzz, with fans praising Jacob Elordi’s casting. The hashtag #FrankensteinDelToro quickly gained traction, with discussions comparing the film to past adaptations, like the 1931 Boris Karloff classic. Del Toro’s knack for balancing horror and poetry is a major draw, and the images suggest the film will deliver on that front.
Critics are also keeping a close eye on the project, especially after Del Toro’s past successes. The mix of a young, talented cast and a seasoned director creates high expectations. Adapting an iconic work like Frankenstein with a fresh yet respectful approach positions the film as a potential genre milestone.
Preparing for the November release
Set to hit Netflix in November 2025, Frankenstein is shaping up as a major release. The film promises to captivate both fans of Mary Shelley’s novel and new audiences, thanks to its stellar cast and direction. The released images are just a glimpse, but they already point to a visually striking and emotionally engaging experience.
The involvement of Jacob Elordi, Mia Goth, and Oscar Isaac elevates the project, while Del Toro’s vision ensures a unique take. The TIFF screening will gauge initial reactions, but the images suggest a hit in the making. Netflix is positioning Frankenstein as a flagship title for the semester, with potential to shine in awards season.
