5 Movies to Watch if You’re Excited for Del Toro’s Frankenstein

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If you’re eagerly anticipating Guillermo del Toro’s take on “Frankenstein,” you might be curious about how he plans to reimagine the original tale. The movie delves into the lives of Victor Frankenstein and his creation, focusing not only on the tragedy of life creation but also on the subsequent emotional and moral consequences. Del Toro is renowned for weaving together elements of horror, fantasy, and drama in a way that immerses viewers in the characters’ feelings, rather than just scaring them. With its theater release slated for October and streaming debut on Netflix in November, how can you endure the anticipation? Perhaps you could immerse yourself in the film’s atmosphere with other titles that echo Del Toro’s distinctive vision.

If you’re eagerly anticipating Guillermo del Toro’s fresh perspective on Frankenstein, here are five films that will fuel your excitement, help you understand the style, and give you a glimpse of both the atmosphere and the creature.

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5) The Witch

In essence, “The Witch” is an exceptional demonstration of crafting suspenseful atmosphere and psychological unease. Director Robert Eggers skillfully employs elements like isolation, paranoia, and deteriorating relationships to instill terror rather than relying on obvious monsters or startling surprises. The narrative centers around a 17th-century Puritan family who decide to settle a farm close to a haunted woodland. As their newborn mysteriously vanishes, suspicions and apprehension gradually intensify, ultimately threatening the bonds between family members.

The Witch” serves as an excellent precursor due to its ability to convey a story that’s strikingly intense through oppressive tension and deeply introspective characters. Unlike typical horror, it captivates you in various ways without resorting to gimmicks. Moreover, its meticulous historical detail and character psychology echo the emotional tension expected from Guillermo del Toro’s forthcoming Frankenstein, as it delves not only into the monster but also the effect of creation and guilt on human beings.

4) The Shape of Water

Titled “The Shape of Water,” this Oscar-winning masterpiece, directed by Guillermo del Toro, narrates the tale of Elisa (portrayed by Sally Hawkins), a speech-impaired woman employed at a clandestine government lab. There, she encounters an aquatic being held captive. As they establish an emotional bond, their relationship deepens, providing a compelling example of del Toro’s ability to evoke empathy for what is typically feared. The film not only highlights his distinctive style but also demonstrates how he breathes life and compassion into monstrous characters, thereby subverting preconceived notions and stereotypes.

In “The Shape of Water,” the creature’s emotions and isolation are strongly emphasized, similar to the approach for “Frankenstein.” Both stories suggest that the true sorrow stems from the humanity within the creatures themselves. Guillermo del Toro aims to underscore the inability of those involved to truly grasp their emotional responsibility – a theme reminiscent of Victor Frankenstein’s struggle.

3) Pan’s Labyrinth

For fans eagerly anticipating the ‘Frankenstein’ movie experience, another must-see from Guillermo del Toro is “Pan’s Labyrinth.” This film showcases his distinctive visual aesthetic and storytelling style. The plot revolves around a young girl named Ofelia (played by Ivana Baquero) who uncovers a mystical realm amidst Francoist Spain. While her mother endures hardship and her stepfather grows more menacing, she navigates this dark fantasy world that delves into themes of innocence, cruelty, and resilience, offering a profound exploration of the human spirit.

Drawing from the available materials for Frankenstein, Pan’s Labyrinth offers a model for the visual aesthetic, tempo, and emotional intensity that we might encounter in del Toro’s upcoming film. One striking feature (occasionally disquieting) is the creature design, which heightens anticipation for Frankenstein, as these creatures aren’t merely created to visually captivate; they serve to amplify the mood, ambiance, and emotional impact of the narrative.

2) Frankenstein (1931)

Discussing Guillermo del Toro’s latest version of Frankenstein without first watching James Whale’s 1931 original is like skipping a foundation stone. The original film lays the groundwork for the cinematic myth, and while del Toro’s interpretation offers a more emotional perspective, it draws heavily on the classic horror elements established by Whale. The iconic design of the monster and the gothic ambiance from the original are still recognizable in del Toro’s rendition, as he delves into those same roots in his own unique way.

Essentially, observing the original work gives insight into Del Toro’s decisions: he maintains the central tragic theme of the creature, but whereas the 1931 film emphasizes horror and visual impact, the new version is anticipated to concentrate on the monster’s personal perspective – its emotions, struggles, and quest for connection. In summary, the timeless classic Frankenstein is crucial for making comparisons and for comprehending the director’s enduring enthusiasm for the tale.

1) The Bride of Frankenstein

As a cinephile, I can’t help but express my excitement about the iconic masterpiece, “The Bride of Frankenstein.” Contrary to what one might expect, this sequel stands out as perhaps the most crucial installment in the series. The reason? It’s not only generally regarded as superior to the original but also serves as a profound inspiration for Guillermo del Toro’s “Frankenstein.”

The narrative picks up where the first film left off, delving into the tortured existence of the creature, who yearns for companionship amidst his isolation. The plot unfolds with the introduction of a bride, which introduces a compelling dynamic of responsibility and rejection that forms the heart of the story. This emotional depth given to the monster adds an unprecedented layer of tragedy that sets it apart from its predecessor.

Elsa Lanchester’s portrayal of the bride is iconically memorable, and the movie skillfully merges elements of horror, emotion, and even comedy. For those eagerly anticipating the new adaptation, it’s safe to say that _The Bride of Frankenstein_ most closely aligns with what we can anticipate from the upcoming _Frankenstein_. Del Toro, like this film, demonstrates a remarkable talent for delving into the emotional repercussions of creation and the intricacies of relationships.

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2025-08-31 17:14