I really liked Del Torro's direction for this adaptation of Frakenstein! I'd say that they didn't really stay faithful to the entirety of the source material (the novel), but the essence of the story itself is *alive* (Get it? Alive? Like The Creature? Okay bye.) Del Toro took creative liberties and injected his own interpretation for this film, which I personally don't mind considering it's a classic that already has a lot of film adaptations prior to this one. They included details that added so much more context to the aspect of storytelling, nothing is too small to notice (Keep your eyes open because the visual clues are THERE there) The movie confronts the hubris of man, as personified by the titular character Frankenstein, and the nature of merely existing in a world where cruelty and kindness are ever-present. Where tragedy awaits at the end of the story for both the creator and his own creation, and those who were subsequently involved in their narrative. The dialogue is significantly poignant and something that evoked me to raise questions myself and I can't forget about those bits of comedic quips scattered here and there as well LOL. I also want to add that I hoped to see certain characters interacting more and having additional dialogue to covey a clearer connection between them and their respective circumstances, though I guess it was implied through details that I might've missed. The cinematography is scrumptious *chef's kiss* (Honestly, anything by Del Toro is!) and I long for more modern films with gothic themes and stunning color grading. The costume design was something I NEEDED to see (The costume designer Kate Hawley previously worked with Del Toro in Crimson Peak, another lovely gothic film I'd like to recommend.) I adored Elizabeth's dresses, and the rest of the characters' costumes reflected who they were, in a sense (Like how Frakenstein's clothes look disheveled, further framing him as a mad scientist.) I enjoyed the montage of Frankenstein assembling The Creature, I can say that Del Toro's use of practical effects really paid off! As well as the score ( by Alexandre Desplat) that masterfully accompanied the scenes. That last shot was hauntingly beautiful. The main cast is also amazing! Jacob Elordi's performance was remarkable, I loved how he displayed vulnerability in such a tender manner, yet also exhibited deep contempt and his movements and delivery shows that he understood his character so well. I'd love to see him in more grotesque roles. Oscar Isaac is such a great Dr. Frankenstein. He absolutely knows how to portray a character who knows how to command a room and whose pride knows no limits until it catches up to him. His crazed looks was the cherry on top of his performance. Lastly, Mia Goth as Elizabeth was an excellent choice. I loved her character and how Elizabeth's quiet disposition made her seem a bit intimidating at first, but in actuality, she is gentle, and moreso thoughtful. Overall, I liked the film! I did have a bit of an issue with the pacing though, as it was somewhat too fast and slow for me in some parts of the film. But it's worth watching to try and see if you like it youself :)