Jacob Elordi’s transformative performance as the Creature in Guillermo del Toro’s “Frankenstein” has ignited critical acclaim, marking a significant moment in his career and highlighting the film’s monster’s hidden humanity. The premiere at the Venice International Film Festival on August 30, 2025, resulted in a 14-minute standing ovation, underscoring the anticipation surrounding this adaptation. While the overall reception of the Netflix production has been mixed, Elordi’s portrayal consistently emerges as a standout, earning comparisons to Boris Karloff’s iconic interpretation.
A “Revelatory” Monster Role
Guillermo del Toro’s “Frankenstein” features Oscar Isaac as Victor Frankenstein, alongside a stellar cast including Mia Goth, Christoph Waltz, and Charles Dance. However, it is Jacob Elordi’s performance as the Creature that has truly captured the attention of critics. Elordi stepped into the role in January 2024, replacing Andrew Garfield due to scheduling conflicts. His transformation into the Monster required an arduous 10-hour daily makeup process, a testament to his commitment to the role.
Del Toro’s Vision and Elordi’s Humanity
Del Toro specifically chose Elordi for the role because of the inherent “humanity” he saw in his eyes. According to Del Toro, this quality was crucial for portraying the Creature’s inner life and emotional depth. The director’s vision for the Creature also deviated from traditional depictions, aiming for a “perfect, beautiful thing” that an artist like Victor Frankenstein would create, moving away from the stitched-together aesthetic often associated with the character.
Critical Acclaim for Elordi’s Performance
Critics have universally praised Elordi’s ability to convey the Creature’s profound sadness and his capacity to make the character’s awakening feel “fresh, vital, new.” David Rooney of The Hollywood Reporter noted that Elordi’s “dark, soulful eyes convey a piercing sadness not felt from this character since Boris Karloff’s haunted work” in the 1930s. This comparison to Karloff, a benchmark in monster portrayals, underscores the impact of Elordi’s interpretation.
Nuance and Complexity
Bilge Ebiri of Vulture commended Elordi for making the Creature’s growing curiosity and hurt palpable, highlighting the actor’s ability to communicate complex emotions. Ryan Lattanzio of IndieWire went further, calling it the most “psychologically complex portrayal of the creature” since Karloff, emphasizing the otherworldly feeling Elordi brings to the role. James Mottram of Radio Times also acknowledged Elordi’s “dexterity in a performance of few words but grand and sometimes heartbreaking gestures,” showcasing his physical acting prowess.
Elordi’s Perspective on the Role
During a press conference at the Venice Film Festival on August 30, Elordi shared his personal connection to the character. He described the role as “a vessel that I could put every part of myself into,” revealing a deep emotional investment. He further elaborated, stating that “In so many ways, the creature that’s on screen in this movie is the purest form of myself. He’s more me than I am.” This statement provides insight into Elordi’s approach to the role and his understanding of the Creature’s inherent humanity.
Impact and Reception
The critical acclaim surrounding Elordi’s performance is expected to significantly boost his career, solidifying his reputation as a versatile and compelling actor. As of today, the film holds a 78% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with many reviewers specifically citing Elordi as the heart and soul of the production. This positive reception, despite some criticisms of the film’s overall tone, highlights the power of Elordi’s portrayal to resonate with audiences and critics alike.
Release Details
“Frankenstein” is scheduled for a limited theatrical release on October 17, 2025, providing audiences with an opportunity to experience the film on the big screen. Following this limited run, the film will be available globally on Netflix starting November 7, 2025, making it accessible to a wider audience.
In conclusion, Jacob Elordi’s “revelatory” performance in Guillermo del Toro’s “Frankenstein” has not only captivated critics but also promises to redefine the iconic monster. His ability to convey the Creature’s inner turmoil and humanity, combined with del Toro’s unique vision, positions this adaptation as a significant contribution to the Frankenstein legacy. With a strong critical reception and a wide release planned, Elordi’s performance is set to leave a lasting impact on both his career and the cinematic landscape.
