Australian actor Jacob Elordi made a significant entrance at the Venice Film Festival for the world premiere of Guillermo del Toro’s highly anticipated adaptation of Frankenstein on September 6, 2023. The event marks the beginning of the film’s campaign for major awards this season, with expectations already building around its potential success.
Del Toro’s Vision Realized
In this new interpretation of Mary Shelley’s classic novel, Oscar Isaac portrays Victor Frankenstein, while Elordi takes on the role of the creature. Del Toro, who has long envisioned this project, expressed his deep emotional connection to the film. “It’s the movie that I’ve been in training for 30 years to do,” he shared with The Associated Press.
As the premiere approached, Del Toro described the experience of completing the film as akin to “postpartum depression,” reflecting on the intense effort that went into creating what he called a gothic feast of sets. Elordi, who joined the production later in the process, fully embraced the challenge of portraying a childlike monster. “It’s a vessel that I could put every part of myself into,” he noted. “In so many ways, the creature that is on screen in that movie is the purest form of myself; he’s more me than I am.”
A Personal Narrative
Before filming commenced, Isaac recalled Del Toro telling him, “I’m creating this banquet for you, you just have to show up and eat.” Isaac highlighted the personal nature of the film, stating, “I think ultimately it is about outsiders.” This theme resonates deeply throughout the narrative, as it explores the complexities of identity and acceptance.
Outside of the red carpet festivities, an anti-war march is scheduled to coincide with the premiere, aiming to draw attention to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. This demonstration underscores the festival’s role as a platform for broader social issues, alongside its celebration of cinematic achievements.
Del Toro’s previous success at the Venice Film Festival includes his 2017 film The Shape of Water, which won the festival’s top prize and later secured both best picture and best director Oscars in 2018. Netflix, which produced Frankenstein, is keen to replicate that success. The streaming giant has yet to achieve a best picture win but is optimistic, especially following the triumph of Del Toro’s Pinocchio, which earned the company its first Oscar for best animated feature.
As the film competes with notable entries this year, including works by Yorgos Lanthimos, Kathryn Bigelow, and Park Chan-wook, the anticipation surrounding Frankenstein continues to grow. The film is set to be released in theatres on October 17, 2023, followed by its streaming debut on November 7, 2023.
With its combination of a powerful narrative, stellar performances, and Del Toro’s visionary direction, Frankenstein promises to be a standout in this year’s awards season.
