Top 10 Movies Similar to Guillermo Del Toro's Frankenstein

Some director-project pairings seem destined, as if cinemas guardian spirits themselves arranged them. Guillermo del Toro directing a new "Frankenstein" adaptation is one such instance. Written solely by del Toro and based directly on Mary Shelleys groundbreaking 1818 novel, Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus, the 2025 Netflix release quickly became one of the most discussed films of the year.

The story follows Victor Frankenstein (Oscar Isaac), a brilliant but obsessive scientist who assembles a living being from assorted human parts. Del Toros version, however, introduces new layers: Victor attempts to raise the Creature (Jacob Elordi) as a son, yet he unwittingly repeats the harshness of his own upbringing. This narrative choice allows del Toro to explore themes of societal prejudice, misunderstood innocence, familial trauma, and the collision of kindness with cruelty. Set against a richly Gothic backdrop, the film delights in meticulously crafted atmospheres, intense emotions, and moments of stark violence, sparking renewed interest in Gothic cinema.

For those craving more of this style, here are ten films that echo the visual and emotional grandeur of del Toros Frankenstein.

Nosferatu (2024)

Robert Eggers remake of Nosferatu follows a similar Gothic revival path as del Toros work. Lily-Rose Depp stars as Ellen Hutter, who receives a deep character exploration rarely afforded to the originals heroine. The vampire, played by Bill Skarsgrd, is reimagined through prosthetics and psychological nuance. Eggers approach balances lavish visual detail with thematic exploration of psychosexual tension, producing a hauntingly modernized classic.

Crimson Peak (2015)

For fans of del Toros Gothic flair, Crimson Peak is an essential viewing. Mia Wasikowska plays Edith Cushing, an American writer who marries Sir Thomas Sharpe (Tom Hiddleston) and moves into a decaying mansion filled with secrets. Del Toros homage to Gothic romance blends atmospheric horror with emotional storytelling, offering a visually opulent experience grounded in human drama.

Bram Stokers Dracula (1992)

Francis Ford Coppolas adaptation of Dracula is a maximalist Gothic spectacle. Gary Oldmans Count Dracula dominates a visually lush world, surrounded by Winona Ryder, Keanu Reeves, Tom Waits, and Anthony Hopkins. The film balances faithfulness to Stokers novel with Coppolas cinematic grandeur, making it a must-watch for those who appreciate ambitious, immersive Gothic storytelling.

Interview with the Vampire (1994)

Neil Jordans adaptation of Anne Rices novel explores complex relationships and emotional intensity similar to del Toros Frankenstein. Tom Cruise and Brad Pitt portray centuries-old vampires navigating love, loss, and unconventional parenthood with Kirsten Dunst as their eternally youthful ward, Claudia. The film blends horror with deeply felt interpersonal drama.

Pans Labyrinth (2006)

Del Toros own Pans Labyrinth combines fantastical imagination with historical and political undercurrents. Doug Jones embodies the enigmatic Faun, guiding young Ofelia through challenges that mirror real-world oppression. The films visual richness and emotional depth make it a perfect thematic companion to Frankenstein, especially in its exploration of parental authority and innocence under threat.

Good Manners (2017)

Brazilian directors Juliana Rojas and Marco Dutra craft a twisted fairy tale with Good Manners. Isabl Zuaa plays Clara, a housekeeper who becomes entwined with her employer Ana (Marjorie Estiano) and her unusual pregnancy. The film examines the consequences of raising a monstrous child in a perilous world, blending horror, romance, and surreal comedy into an unforgettable experience.

The Wolfman (2010)

Joe Johnstons The Wolfman revisits Gothic horror at a time when mainstream werewolf films were rare. Benicio del Toro stars as Lawrence Talbot, who returns to England after his brothers death only to encounter the supernatural. The film emphasizes somber atmosphere, grand sets, and meticulous makeup, making it a precursor to del Toros lavish creature features.

The Elephant Man (1980)

David Lynchs The Elephant Man is a biographical drama steeped in Gothic sensibilities. John Hurt portrays John Merrick, a man ostracized for his physical deformities yet remarkable for his intelligence and kindness. Lynch highlights societal cruelty and compassion in equal measure, creating a poignant narrative that resonates with Frankensteins exploration of misunderstood beings.

Splice (2009)

Vincenzo Natalis Splice, executive produced by del Toro, updates the Frankensteinian theme for the 21st century. Adrien Brody and Sarah Polley play scientists who create Dren, a rapidly maturing human-animal hybrid. The film delves into moral ambiguity, forbidden science, and parental responsibility, echoing many thematic concerns of del Toros adaptation.

The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari (1920)

Robert Wienes German Expressionist classic The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari established the visual and psychological blueprint for horror cinema. Conrad Veidts somnambulist Cesare, manipulated by Dr. Caligari (Werner Krauss), embodies the conflict of innocence versus malevolence. Its influence on del Toro is evident in Frankensteins stylized sets, framing, and exploration of creator and creation dynamics.

Author: Ava Mitchell