Jacob Elordi went through a major transformation for his latest role. He plays the monster in Guillermo del Toro’s new movie Frankenstein. The actor spent up to 10 hours each day in makeup to become the character. This process was both long and difficult. Elordi said he lost track of time while filming. He focused only on his work as the creature.
The movie is a big project for Netflix. It cost $120 million to make. Oscar Isaac plays Dr. Victor Frankenstein, the scientist who creates the monster. The film is based on Mary Shelley’s classic novel. But del Toro’s version focuses more on the story’s emotional depth. It is not a typical horror movie. It explores themes of rejection and loneliness.
Elordi was not the first choice for the monster. Andrew Garfield was originally cast but left due to scheduling problems. Del Toro chose Elordi after seeing his performance in Saltburn. The director said he was impressed by Elordi’s ability to show innocence and humanity. Elordi’s eyes were a key reason he got the part.
The Demanding Makeup Process
Becoming the monster required a lot of time and patience. Makeup artists worked for hours to apply prosthetics each day. Elordi described the costume as having many layers. The look of the monster changes throughout the film. When first created, the creature is more open and exposed. As he experiences pain, his posture changes. He becomes more hunched and closed off.
“You throw time away when you make a film like this. I stopped having a clock, and I would just wait till the SUV arrived. That meant it was time to go. I didnโt do breakfast, lunch or dinner, or think in terms of morning, afternoon, night. It was just one time.”
Some days, Elordi would start makeup as early as 10 p.m. the night before filming. He would stay in the chair all night to be ready for the next day. Despite the long hours, Elordi never complained. Director Guillermo del Toro praised his professionalism and dedication.
Physical and Vocal Transformation
Elordi did not just rely on makeup to become the monster. He also worked on the character’s movements and voice. For his walk, he took inspiration from butoh, a Japanese dance style. This dance involves slow, controlled movements that seem disconnected from the body. This helped Elordi show the creature’s awkwardness and pain.
For the monster’s voice, Elordi listened to Mongolian throat singing. This type of singing creates deep, guttural sounds. He practiced speaking with false teeth to see how they affected his speech. The result is a voice that is unique and otherworldly.
“Itโs guttural smooth chanting,” Elordi explained.
These choices helped Elordi create a monster that is both scary and sympathetic. He wanted to show the creature’s inner struggle and desire for acceptance.
A New Take on a Classic Story
Guillermo del Toro’s Frankenstein is not a traditional horror film. Instead, it focuses on the relationship between the creator and his creation. The story is about understanding and forgiveness. It also shows the psychological damage that parents can cause their children.
Victor Frankenstein had a difficult childhood. He lost his mother at a young age and was raised by a strict father. This background helps explain his actions as an adult. He creates the monster but then abandons him. This rejection leads the monster to seek revenge.
The film also stars Mia Goth and Christoph Waltz. Goth plays Victor’s mother, and Waltz plays his father. Charles Dance and Christian Convery also appear in the movie.
Release Plans and Awards Hopes
Netflix has big plans for Frankenstein. The movie will first be shown in theaters for three weeks. It starts on October 17, 2025. After that, it will be available on Netflix from November 7, 2025. This strategy is similar to other Netflix films that get a short theater release before streaming.
The movie is already being talked about as a possible awards contender. Its length of 149 minutes and large budget show its scale. Del Toro hopes that audiences will see it in theaters for the best experience.
“Itโs heartbreaking that films like these donโt have full cinematic releases,” Elordi said. “My great hope is that we get this film in cinemas for as long as possible.”
Elordi wants people to see the film on the big screen. He believes that some moments are more powerful when shared with an audience.
Elordi’s Preparation and Dedication
Elordi worked hard to prepare for the role. He spent many hours practicing the monster’s movements in his hotel room. He also worked with voice coaches to get the right sound. The actor said the role changed how he approaches acting. It was the most demanding part he has ever played.
Director Guillermo del Toro gave Elordi clear instructions. He told him to treat the role like a “sacrament” and to get into a “holy state.” This meant fully committing to the character both physically and emotionally.
“Never once did he come to me and complain,” del Toro said. “Never once did he come to me and say, โIโm tired. Iโm hungry. Can I go?โ And he put in 20-hour days.”
Elordi’s commitment paid off. His performance is expected to be a highlight of the film.
The Importance of the Monster’s Design
The design of the monster is crucial to the story. Del Toro wanted the creature to look both artificial and human. The makeup shows that he is made from different parts. But his eyes are full of emotion. This makes the audience feel sympathy for him.
The monster’s appearance changes as he evolves. Initially, he is more open and curious. As he faces rejection, he becomes more closed off. This visual storytelling helps show his emotional journey.
Elordi’s transformation amazed even his own dog. He said his golden retriever Layla was not scared of his makeup. She remained calm and even seemed to like it.
A Long Journey to the Screen
Guillermo del Toro has wanted to make this film for 30 years. He called it his “Mount Everest” because it was so hard to get made. He pitched the idea to many studios before Netflix agreed. The large budget and del Toro’s vision finally made it possible.
The movie was filmed in Toronto and Scotland. The sets were detailed and impressive. They included an abandoned water tower that serves as Victor’s lab. The lab has large glass columns that change color with electricity. This adds a visual flair to the creation scene.
Oscar Isaac plays Victor Frankenstein as a rock star-like figure. He took inspiration from David Bowie and Prince for his performance. He even copied Prince’s walk from the 2007 Super Bowl. Isaac saw Victor as an artist rather than a scientist.
Future of the Frankenstein Story
Frankenstein is a classic story that continues to inspire new versions. Another film called The Bride is also in development. It will focus on the monster’s girlfriend and is directed by Maggie Gyllenhaal. Sebastian Stan is also set to star in Frankenstein in Romania.
These new adaptations show that the story remains relevant. Themes of creation, rejection, and identity resonate with modern audiences. Del Toro’s film aims to be a definitive version of the tale.
Jacob Elordi’s performance as the monster is likely to be remembered. His dedication to the role shows his commitment as an actor. The long hours in makeup and intense preparation have resulted in a unique take on the character.
Also Read: Jacob Elordi Transforms Into Frankensteinโs Monster For Guillermo Del Toroโs Netflix Film
Credits: Variety, AOL
