Guillermo del Toro's latest film is now available on Netflix. Before the audience saw Jacob Elordi as The Creature in this adaptation of Frankenstein, there was considerable buzz about his casting and its effect on the character's perception. Many noted that Elordi's heartthrob reputation suggested a "hot monster" portrayal (via Toronto Life).
Once the movie was released, the conversation intensified, with some critics focusing primarily on Elordi's appearance despite the impressive makeup effects. Polygon commented,
“Frankenstein's monster has never been hotter.”Meanwhile, the BBC criticized the film, arguing that a "hunky" Creature strayed too far from accuracy and was
“just too handsome”to be faithful to the original story.
However, the debate over The Creature’s attractiveness or fidelity to Mary Shelley's novel misses the core issue. Elordi delivers an outstanding performance, arguably his best to date and one of the year’s finest. Although he first gained attention with Netflix's teen rom-com The Kissing Booth, it was Euphoria that highlighted his potential. Despite some co-stars achieving greater fame, Elordi has quietly developed a strong and diverse filmography over the last six years.
Jacob Elordi's portrayal in del Toro's Frankenstein challenges preconceived notions, proving his talent extends far beyond his looks and marking a significant milestone in his acting career.