Frankenstein

The fact that this story has been told so many times, in various styles (from comedy to horror), over so many years is a testament to the power and depth of Mary Shelley’s original vision.

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This particular retelling is more emotional than others I’ve seen. Guillermo del Toro tells it from two directions: one from the perspective of the monster, the other from the perspective of his creator. Both perspectives have to do with the father/son relationship: specifically, the father’s disappointment in the son. There is a poignant moment in which generational trauma is voiced in the statement, “You only listen when I hurt you!"

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In addition to stand-out acting by Jacob Elordi (who plays the monster, and Oscar Issac (who is getting more and more handsome as he ages), the film is visually rich in texture and color plays an important role.

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Sections of the story have their own distinct color palettes which force us to feel the severity and pain of the doctor’s childhood and the healing and understanding that the warmer palette engenders. And, of course, the cinematography is beautiful.

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Like other tellings of this story, there are profound conversations around what life is, what love is, 'who am I', and 'what is my purpose’, and themes include loneliness, isolation, ugliness and beauty.

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This is a visual treat. 100% recommended.

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