Guillermo del Toro’s passion project, Frankenstein, premiered at the 2025 Venice International Film Festival, offering a deeply emotional, visually rich adaptation of Shelley’s classic, underpinned by evocative humanism and practical craft.
Far from a typical horror flick, del Toro reimagines the Creature—played by Jacob Elordi—as a sensitive, affectionate being caught in a cruel world, while Victor Frankenstein (Oscar Isaac) emerges as the true “monster.” The film favors tactile, real-world design over CGI, crafting a vividly textured experience.
Standing Ovation & Transformational Acting
The film debuted to a 13-minute standing ovation, one of the longest at the festival. Jacob Elordi was visibly moved, describing the role as the “purest form” of himself, having poured his entire life experience into the portrayal. He endured a demanding 10-hour daily makeup routine to embody the being’s evolving humanity.
Mixed Critical Reaction
Critics largely lauded the film’s beauty and emotional depth. The Hollywood Reporter highlights its blend of “tragedy, romance, and philosophical reflection,” while The Wrap calls it “monstrously moving,” praising its meticulous production design and storytelling space.
However, not all reactions were glowing. Variety questioned the film’s pacing and Netflix-level effects quality, suggesting that a streaming-first production may limit its theatrical impact. Some critics highlighted tonal shifts between gothic horror and melodramatic romance, although Jacob Elordi’s haunting performance remained a standout. (GamesRadar offers a balanced view, calling it “a classy, if somewhat safe, adaptation.”)
On Practical Effects & Industry Philosophy
At the post-screening press conference, Christoph Waltz offered a memorable line: “CGI is for losers.” His remarks underscored del Toro’s preference for practical, physical environments. Del Toro clarified that it’s not about rejecting digital tools, but using them meaningfully when necessary. In his words:
“As a filmmaker, there’s no bad resource. Only badly used ones.”
Why It Matters for AVGC & XR Creators
| Insight | Implication |
|---|---|
| Prioritizing Tactile Design | Reinforces the power of physical craftsmanship over overused CGI — a philosophy that resonates with immersive media creators and XR environments. |
| Character Rooted in Humanity | Emphasizes emotional, performance-based storytelling—a model for creators aiming for depth over spectacle. |
| Festival-Driven Buzz | The emotional audience response and graphic design acclaim signal this as a potentially influential AVGC moment. |
| Artistry Over Technology | Del Toro’s balanced embrace of practical and digital techniques offers a guiding strategy for creative tech integration. |
