Jacob Elordi Transforms into Frankenstein's Creature in Guillermo del Toro's Adaptation

Guillermo del Toro's latest film, *Frankenstein*, reimagines Mary Shelley's iconic creature, with Jacob Elordi portraying the titular monster. This adaptation, which premiered in select theaters on October 17, 2025, and will stream on Netflix starting November 7, marks a significant departure from traditional portrayals of Frankenstein's monster. Elordi's character is designed to be more aesthetically pleasing, featuring sculpted cheekbones, smooth ivory skin, and subtle, suture-less scars that mimic contour lines, diverging from the classic green-skinned depiction.

Jacob Elordi Transforms into a Unique Frankenstein’s Monster in a New TwistJacob Elordi Reinvents Frankenstein’s Monster in Fresh InterpretationCNNFrankenstein, Starring Jacob Elordi & Oscar Isaac, Is In Theatres This Weekend

The transformation of Elordi into the Creature involved an extensive makeup process, requiring 42 individual silicone pieces applied over ten hours. Mike Hill, the film's prosthetics artist, aimed for a sophisticated look that avoided the grotesque representations often associated with the character. Hill's design was inspired by Old Masters' alabaster statues and included a geometric pattern to reflect the Creature's man-made origins. Elordi's recognizable features, such as his big brown eyes and strong jawline, were intentionally preserved to create a more human-like appearance.

CNN

Elordi's preparation for the role was influenced by his recent experiences filming the World War II miniseries *The Narrow Road to the Deep North*, during which he lost significant weight. He described this period as grueling, filled with moments of anguish and physical pain. However, he recognized this suffering as a blessing, allowing him to channel these emotions into his portrayal of the Creature. "I realized immediately the Creature was where I was supposed to go away to," Elordi explained, emphasizing how the role provided him with a form of liberation.

New York Post

Del Toro's adaptation explores deeper themes of humanity, beauty, and acceptance. Unlike previous versions that focused on the Creature's appearance, this film shifts the narrative to address his intelligence and emotional depth. The Creature grapples with feelings of abandonment and seeks companionship, echoing Shelley's original themes of existentialism and the consequences of creation. Del Toro's vision aims to evoke empathy for the Creature, presenting him as a tragic figure rather than a mere monster.

Jacob Elordi Reinvents Frankenstein’s Monster in Fresh Interpretation

Early reviews of *Frankenstein* have been largely positive, with critics praising its emotional depth and visual artistry. David Rooney from *The Hollywood Reporter* described it as "epic-scale storytelling of uncommon beauty, feeling, and artistry." The film's unique approach to the classic tale has sparked discussions about societal standards of beauty and the evolving representation of monsters in cinema.

Hollywood Reporter

As *Frankenstein* prepares for its Netflix release, it promises to add a fresh layer to the enduring legacy of Mary Shelley's creation. With Elordi's transformative performance and del Toro's masterful direction, this adaptation invites audiences to reconsider the nature of monstrosity and the complexities of human emotion. The film not only honors the original narrative but also redefines it for a contemporary audience, ensuring that the story of Frankenstein remains relevant in today's cultural landscape.

Jacob Elordi Transforms into a Unique Frankenstein’s Monster in a New Twist