The highly anticipated Netflix adaptation of Frankenstein by Guillermo del Toro has finally revealed its first trailer, and while the footage is intriguing, it has left some fans with mixed feelings.
A Promising Yet Underwhelming First Look
When it comes to literary adaptations, there are certain combinations that just seem to work. For instance, Terry Gilliam’s take on Miguel de Cervantes’ Don Quixote, David Cronenberg’s interpretation of William S. Burroughs’ Naked Lunch, and Robert Eggers’ chilling rendition of Nosferatu all showcase the potential magic of transforming iconic works through visionary directors. Guillermo del Toro’s upcoming Frankenstein adaptation fits that mold perfectly. With his distinct gothic touch and mastery of visual storytelling, expectations are naturally high for this adaptation of Mary Shelley’s legendary tale.
The trailer for the new Frankenstein film dropped during Netflix’s 2025 Tudum event, sending fans into a frenzy. However, after the excitement, some viewers were left feeling a little underwhelmed. The special effects, while still impressive, seem somewhat restrained, and the gothic elegance del Toro is known for feels a bit subdued. There’s a sense of caution in these first images—perhaps even a slight departure from the boldness of his past works like Hellboy II or the misunderstood Crimson Peak.
But before jumping to conclusions, it’s important to remember that a trailer is only a glimpse of what’s to come. Del Toro is known for saving his most stunning visuals for the final cut, and there’s a good chance that the best of this adaptation will shine through when the full film hits Netflix.
The Star-Studded Cast and a Story That Demands Grandeur
Despite some initial hesitation around the trailer, there’s still a lot to look forward to in this adaptation. The cast alone is enough to get excited about. The film stars Oscar Isaac, known for his versatile performances in films like Ex Machina and Inside Llewyn Davis, alongside the rising star Jacob Elordi (from Euphoria) and the incredibly talented Mia Goth (who’s made a name for herself in Suspiria and X).
This powerhouse trio promises to bring depth and intensity to the classic characters of Mary Shelley’s novel. The story of Frankenstein, with its exploration of creation, consequence, and moral ambiguity, is one that demands an epic scale. Given del Toro’s past works, which often combine stunning visuals with emotional depth (remember the haunting beauty of Pan’s Labyrinth), this adaptation is poised to deliver something truly special.
Fans of del Toro’s gothic sensibilities will also likely appreciate the cinematic scale hinted at in the trailer. While the teaser might not show all the explosive effects the film promises, it certainly teases a grand narrative—one that del Toro has perfected over the years.
Frankenstein’s eerie tale has been adapted countless times, but with del Toro at the helm, this version could very well become one of the defining adaptations of the classic novel. As the film continues to generate buzz, we can’t help but wonder how the combination of del Toro’s creative vision and this stellar cast will elevate the legendary tale.
Frankenstein will be streaming on Netflix in November, and it looks like the wait will be worth it. While the trailer might not have given away all the thrills, there’s enough promise here to suggest that this will be a cinematic experience worth waiting for. Keep your expectations high—this could very well be Netflix’s most daring project yet.