Guillermo del Toro, the renowned director behind the recent film adaptation of Mary Shelley’s classic novel “Frankenstein,” recently shared a deeply personal connection he feels with the book’s iconic monster. In an interview with Page Six published on December 3, del Toro, 61, expressed that he sees himself reflected in the character of the creature from the 1818 novel.
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The filmmaker revealed, “I immediately knew the creature was me.” Del Toro disclosed that his initial encounter with the book at the age of 11 resonated deeply with him. He explained how he felt a sense of not fitting into societal expectations during his upbringing in the 1960s, which led him to still identify with the feelings of alienation embodied by the creature. Del Toro elaborated on the struggle between aligning inner signals with societal norms and expectations.
Reflecting on the timeless themes of Mary Shelley’s work, del Toro shared his belief that certain stories, like Frankenstein, endure through the ages due to their profound mythological qualities. He highlighted the significance of narratives such as Pinocchio and Sherlock Holmes in the collective literary landscape, emphasizing the power of storytelling to evoke truth and renewal.
During the 2025 Gotham Awards, del Toro further delved into the impact of Frankenstein on his own self-awareness. He shared how the novel, coupled with his exposure to Boris Karloff’s portrayal of the monster, helped him realise that he did not conform to conventional standards set by his parents and society. Del Toro expressed a sense of belonging among “monsters and misfits,” finding solace in their companionship.
In the film adaptation of “Frankenstein,” which premiered on Netflix on November 7, talented actors Oscar Isaac and Jacob Elordi take on the roles of Victor Frankenstein and the Creature, respectively. The movie offers a modern interpretation of Shelley’s gothic tale, exploring themes of creation, identity, and societal acceptance in a new light. Viewers can now stream “Frankenstein” on Netflix to experience del Toro’s vision of the timeless classic.
As the director’s personal connection to the story continues to resonate with audiences, del Toro’s candid reflections provide a poignant insight into the enduring legacy of Mary Shelley’s groundbreaking work. His exploration of identity, belonging, and the complexities of human nature through the lens of “Frankenstein” offers a fresh perspective on a narrative that has captivated readers and viewers for centuries.
Guillermo del Toro’s heartfelt revelation underscores the universal appeal of classic literature and its ability to transcend time, resonating with individuals on a deeply personal level. Through his creative vision and emotional depth, del Toro brings a contemporary relevance to a timeless tale, inviting audiences to reflect on what it means to be human in a world filled with monsters and misfits.