Imagine a monster so iconic, it’s been reimagined countless times, yet still manages to electrify audiences. That’s exactly what Netflix is banking on with Guillermo del Toro’s latest adaptation of Frankenstein, and they’re pulling out all the stops to ensure it’s an event to remember. But here’s where it gets controversial: Can a story over 200 years old still shock and awe in the age of streaming? Netflix seems to think so, and they’re not holding back.
Ahead of its November 7 streaming debut, Netflix transformed Hollywood into a spectacle fit for Mary Shelley’s legendary creature. Over Halloween weekend, the streaming giant orchestrated a series of jaw-dropping events, blending cutting-edge technology with old-school horror flair. Picture this: 1,500 drones lighting up the night sky above the Hollywood Forever Cemetery, spelling out Frankenstein in a mesmerizing display. And that was just the beginning. The next day, six synchronized drone shows simulated a lightning storm over iconic landmarks like the Hotel Roosevelt and Capitol Records building, leaving onlookers in awe. But this is the part most people miss: These weren’t just flashy stunts—they were a nod to the film’s central theme of creation and chaos, a reminder that del Toro’s vision is as much about artistry as it is about spectacle.
The climax? A sold-out IMAX screening at the TCL Chinese Theater, where fans decked out in del Toro-inspired costumes gathered to witness the film. Afterward, director Jason Reitman hosted a Q&A with del Toro himself, offering a rare glimpse into the filmmaker’s 15-year journey to bring this project to life. Starring Oscar Isaac, Jacob Elordi, Mia Goth, and Christoph Waltz, the film is already playing in select theaters, but the real buzz is building for its Netflix release.
What’s truly striking is how Netflix extended the celebration beyond Hollywood. In New York City, lightning strikes illuminated the Tiffany & Co. flagship store on Fifth Avenue, drawing crowds to window displays reimagining scenes from the movie. It’s a global event, but with a local, intimate feel—a testament to the story’s enduring power.
Here’s the bold question: Is del Toro’s Frankenstein a masterpiece or a monster of modern cinema? The Hollywood Reporter’s chief film critic, David Rooney, called it ‘epic-scale storytelling of uncommon beauty, feeling, and artistry,’ but not everyone may agree. After all, adapting a classic is always risky. Does it honor Shelley’s original vision, or does it stray too far into del Toro’s signature surrealism? And more importantly, does it still have the power to provoke thought and emotion in today’s desensitized audience?
Del Toro himself described the film as the culmination of a ‘huge episode’ in his life, a labor of love spanning over a decade and a half. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a curious newcomer, one thing’s for sure: This Frankenstein is more than just a movie—it’s a cultural moment. So, what do you think? Is this adaptation a breath of fresh air, or has the story lost its spark? Let’s debate in the comments!
