Guillermo del Toro’s Frankenstein Highlights Practical Effects Over CGI

Guillermo del Toro's new adaptation of Frankenstein, starring Christoph Waltz and Oscar Isaac, emphasizes the use of practical effects over CGI, a choice celebrated by Waltz who bluntly stated, "CGI is for losers." Del Toro advocates for a balance between digital and physical effects, asserting that digital tools should only be used when practical methods are insufficient, highlighting his philosophy that sets and wardrobes are integral to authentic acting. The film, which premiered at the Venice Film Festival and will be released in theaters on October 17, explores deep themes of humanity and imperfection, with del Toro reflecting on the contemporary relevance of these themes in a world challenged by terror, intimidation, and the rise of artificial intelligence. Del Toro downplays fears of AI, instead warning of "natural stupidity," and frames the film as a personal and universal meditation on remaining human amid societal pressures. Oscar Isaac praised the symbolic and thoughtful set design, which contributes to the storytelling by creating immersive environments that evoke the characters' emotional states. The movie splits its narrative between Victor Frankenstein and the Creature, exploring their intertwined fates and the profound questions of existence and acceptance.