BREAKING NEWS: Filmmaker Guillermo del Toro has confirmed that after 20 years of attempts, he finally realized his dream of creating a film adaptation of Mary Shelley’s classic novel, Frankenstein, thanks to Netflix. In a candid interview with BBC Radio 4’s This Cultural Life, del Toro revealed the challenging journey leading to this cinematic milestone.
Del Toro, now 61 years old, expressed his frustration over the years, stating that “everybody passed” on the project until he received an unexpected call from Netflix’s chief executive Ted Sarandos. The filmmaker recounted, “Ted Sarandos said, ‘What is your bucket list?’ He gave me the chance to make the film, a theatrical release – and more importantly, complete freedom.” This pivotal moment led to the film’s release in November 2023.
The adaptation of Frankenstein follows the story of an egotistical scientist who brings a monstrous creature to life through a daring experiment. The film has already generated significant Oscar buzz, particularly for its casting of acclaimed actors such as Oscar Isaac, Mia Goth, and Jacob Elordi.
Elordi’s performance has garnered attention with multiple nominations at prestigious award ceremonies, including the Golden Globes and the Actor Awards. Del Toro has stated that he sees part of himself reflected in the characters he creates, emphasizing, “Every character I write has to have something of me.”
Del Toro’s journey is deeply personal. He shared insights into how his upbringing in Guadalajara, Mexico, shaped his narrative style. “The Bible is the goriest reading that to this day I have ever had. Why would a father send his child to be crucified and tortured?” he questioned, reflecting on the profound impact of his religious and cultural background.
The filmmaker also described his childhood love for Shelley’s work, identifying himself as a “gothic romance addict” who draws significant artistic inspiration from the genre. This passion has been evident in his acclaimed films, including The Shape of Water, Pinocchio, and Pan’s Labyrinth.
In a notable recognition of his contributions to cinema, del Toro is set to receive the BFI Fellowship at the annual BFI Chair’s dinner in May 2026 in London, further solidifying his status as a leading figure in the film industry.
As audiences eagerly await the film’s impact on the awards circuit, del Toro’s reflection on his long struggle to bring Frankenstein to life resonates with many creators facing similar challenges. His story serves as a reminder of the perseverance and passion required in the pursuit of artistic vision.
WHAT’S NEXT: Keep an eye on the upcoming awards season as Frankenstein continues to gain momentum and attention in Hollywood. Fans and critics alike are anticipating how this adaptation will be received by audiences worldwide.
