Guillermo del Toro Brings His 'Frankenstein' to Venice in Bid for Another Golden Lion

Mexican filmmaker Guillermo del Toro will premiere his highly anticipated adaptation of Frankenstein at the upcoming Venice Film Festival, organizers announced Tuesday, as the acclaimed director seeks to claim another Golden Lion. The festival runs from August 27 to September 6.

Starring Jacob Elordi, Oscar Isaac, and Mia Goth, the film represents Del Toro's long-held passion project—an ambitious reimagining of Mary Shelley's Gothic masterpiece about a brilliant scientist who creates a monstrous being with tragic consequences.

"This is one of the most awaited films of the season. We've known for a decade that Del Toro wanted to make this movie, as Shelley's novel has always been a key inspiration for him," said Alberto Barbera, artistic director of the 82nd Venice Film Festival. "We expect something spectacular," he added, noting that Netflix provided unlimited creative freedom for Del Toro's vision.

Del Toro (Guadalajara, 1964) returns to the City of Canals with his signature fantastical style. Isaac stars as the hubristic scientist, while Elordi undergoes a radical transformation as the tormented Creature—reportedly the most physically demanding role of his career.

The director has frequently cited Frankenstein as the most important book of his life, developing his ideal adaptation over decades. This marks his Venice comeback after winning the 2017 Golden Lion for The Shape of Water, which later earned four Oscars including Best Picture and Best Director.

Produced by Netflix, the film is slated for release this fall. Del Toro's previous Gothic works like The Devil's Backbone (2001) and Pan's Labyrinth (2006) have cemented his reputation for blending horror with profound human drama.