Guillermo del Toro’s Frankenstein Wins 14-Minute Venice Ovation

Director Guillermo del Toro's long-anticipated adaptation of Mary Shelley's Frankenstein premiered at the 2025 Venice Film Festival, receiving widespread acclaim and a standing ovation lasting up to 14 minutes. The film stars Jacob Elordi as the Creature and Oscar Isaac as Victor Frankenstein, blending horror, romance, and tragedy with del Toro's signature gothic visual style and emotional depth. Elordi described his role as deeply personal, stating the Creature represents a pure form of himself and required extensive makeup and physical transformation. Critics praised the film's stunning visuals and bold storytelling, though some noted its indulgent length and a slower pace that affects the horror energy. The premiere highlighted a dual narrative structure exploring Victor’s obsession and the Creature’s awakening, delivering a Romantic tragedy rather than a traditional horror story. Netflix will release the film globally on November 7, 2025, following its festival debut.