Frankenstein, reimagined by Guillermo del Toro
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Just a few days before its release on Netflix (on November 7), I’m excited to offer you a first dive into the hypnotic universe of Guillermo del Toro’s Frankenstein. Adapted from Mary Shelley’s work, this gothic tale is revealed here through a personal and enchanting perspective. Having had the chance to see the film on the big screen during the London Film Festival, I also visited the Frankenstein, Creating a Tale Eternal exhibition at the Old Selfridges Hotel in London to uncover all the production secrets. Between Victorian costumes, the creature’s design, and a remarkable collaboration with Tiffany & Co, I share with you the magic that emanates from this reinterpretation.
Frankenstein, as seen by Guillermo del Toro
A great admirer of the Mexican director’s work, Guillermo del Toro’s Frankenstein was one of the films I looked forward to the most in recent years. And the result exceeded my expectations!
This new adaptation of Mary Shelley’s novel is very personal. The author, having written her novel from an autobiographical angle, inspired the director to do the same by including themes that are dear to him and that he has explored in the past (religion, paternal figures, notions of loss, loneliness, love…).
Dreaming of this adaptation for many years, he reveals here an enchanting and unique version of the tale, blending gothic elements with telenovela influences. All this is set in a breathtaking environment and led by a brilliant cast that combines strength and emotion.
We find the elements unique to Guillermo del Toro’s creativity. Notably, his desire to work with real sets (including the construction of a ship, the laboratory…) as well as to use practical effects (puppets, prosthetics, and makeup for the creature…). His intentions give the film that unique and authentic soul, wrapped in the music of Alexandre Desplat (The Shape of Water, Pinocchio).
Narration through Costumes
As mentioned in an interview given to Collider, colors play an essential role in the storytelling of Frankenstein. Whether through set elements, lighting, or costumes, they enhance the structure of the film and the presence of characters.
Set across two eras, the first in the 1830s (Victor’s youth), and then in the 1850s (Victor’s present), the film is rooted in the Victorian era as well as the context of the Crimean War.
To design the costumes, Kate Hawley drew inspiration from the film’s context, but also from her own feelings after rereading Frankenstein (melancholy, solitude, disintegration of nature…), the reading of the script (great emotional weight), as well as the desire for colors expressed by Guillermo del Toro + the gothic framework of the film to respect.
Familiar with 19th-century outfits, the costume designer sought to go further. Specifically, by embracing a vision of the Victorian era that few people are aware of: the appeal for colors.
Therefore, red, blue, green, and yellow are present in a saturated manner in the costumes. They are notably used through patterns reminiscent of nature (mineral patterns – malachite for Elizabeth) or on fine veils, adding a fantastical element to certain characters.
A Historic Collaboration with Tiffany & Co
To complete the outfits, the director and the costume designer could rely on the support of Tiffany & Co. A historic collaboration, on one hand, because the jewelry house is the first to partner with a Netflix production. But also, because the research and crafting work led the team to delve into the past and the jeweler’s archives.
Guillermo del Toro and Kate Hawley were thus able to bring their ideas to life thanks to the guidance and expertise of Christopher Young (head of archives and design – Vice President & Creative Director at Tiffany & Co), accompanied by the master engraver, the goldsmith, the stone and crystal acquisition team, and the innovation workshop of the house (all enchanted by their ideas).
Very quickly, common themes emerged between Mary Shelley’s work, the director’s adaptation, and Tiffany & Co’s legacy. Particularly, a fascination with nature, insects, metamorphosis, and love.
Among the more than 6000 objects and documents present in the archives, it was the work of Louis Comfort Tiffany (son of the founder) and his collaborators, Julia Munson (enamel artist) and Meta Overbeck (chief designer), that resonated with the desires of Kate Hawley and Guillermo del Toro. More specifically, a glass beetle pendant, which presented itself as an obvious choice for the character of Elizabeth (who is passionate about insects).
This inspired the creation of a crucifix, combining a carnelian cross from the house with this insect, blown from Favril glass. This unique piece, rich in symbolism (renewal), illustrates the character’s faith and spirituality while adding a significant detail to the outfits.
The house also lent its “Scarab necklace”, its prestigious “The Wade Family Necklace”, as well as a ring featuring a green tourmaline surrounded by a gold vine.
Frankenstein: Crafting a Tale Eternal, the exhibition celebrating teamwork
To discover the behind-the-scenes of the making of Guillermo del Toro’s Frankenstein, Selfridges has created an exceptional exhibition in London, in partnership with Netflix. Presented alongside the London Film Festival, the installation (ending on 9/11) offers a unique dive into the film’s universe.
Between set elements, costumes, accessories, puppets, sketches, behind-the-scenes photos, reports, and many testimonials from Guillermo del Toro and department heads… The visit is fascinating and reflects how much this film relies on the work of a large team of enthusiasts. And that warms the heart!
Join us on November 7 on Netflix to discover the film – which, unfortunately, only had rare screenings in theaters :(
Photos: © Netflix
