Like many GDT fans, I watched Frankenstein on Netflix this weekend—TWICE.
It is no great insight to compare Frankenstein with Guillermo’s previous film, Pinocchio—he himself has said the movies are linked, because they talk about the same themes from different perspectives. Not only are some of Guillermo’s recurring actors who lent their voice in Pinocchio playing some major or minor role in Frankenstein, but there are other nice Easter eggs pairing the two movies here and there—pay attention to Christoph Waltz’s fox-fur coat for instance, which is a homage to his character in Pinocchio, Count Volpe.
Guillermo’s Frankenstein is, like all of his movies, a feast to the senses that dazzles you with color and design. Like most of his movies, it is also a powerful ode to the hardships of parenthood, and a reminder that people obsessed with imposing *their* version of perfection unto others are the real monsters.
Without entering into spoilers, it is also interesting to see how both movies end with the two creations of reckless creators all alone by the end of their journey in search of identity. I guess all children must learn to face the world once their parents are no longer with them to guide them. But I would like to imagine the two orphans (Frankenstein’s wretched son, and Geppetto’s bratty marionette) greeting and keeping each other company.
Here’s hoping that next year movie theaters offer a double feature with the two movies. In the meantime, go watch Frankenstein, appreciate the work of real artists, and FUCK AI !!
