After Watching The New Frankenstein Movie From The Lens Of A Father, I Have A Few Thoughts

by

I’m a big fan of Guillermo del Toro, like a lot of people here. I’ve seen all his films – Blade II is actually my personal favorite – so I was definitely going to watch his newest movie, Frankenstein, which my coworker, Mick Joest, loves.

I really enjoyed it as well! However, being a father, this film resonated with me in a way that Guillermo del Toro’s other movies haven’t. Let me explain.

I See That Maybe I Ask Too Much Of My Children, Much Like Victor’s Father

Guillermo del Toro’s Frankenstein is unusual for him because it essentially tells two stories: one from Victor’s (Oscar Isaac) point of view, and another from the Creature’s (Jacob Elordi). Like the original novel, but with some changes, the film shows that the situation isn’t straightforward and there’s more to the story than meets the eye.

The first part of the story shows Victor’s father, played by Charles Dance, being very strict with him. As a well-respected doctor, he has high expectations and can be harsh when Victor makes mistakes. It actually made me reflect on how I parent my own children and whether I’m equally demanding.

My kids both consistently make the honor roll, but I still get frustrated when they receive a low grade. I realize I sometimes react badly, even asking them if they didn’t try hard enough when they bring home a C. I’ve learned from a past experience that this negativity can be harmful, so I’m working on being more supportive and encouraging them to do better next time.

While I Don’t Approve Of His Actions, I Do Get Why Frankenstein Struggles Raising A Non-compliant “Child”

I’m both a father and a teacher, and I’ve definitely encountered challenging students over the years. This reminds me of the story of Frankenstein. Victor Frankenstein initially cares for the Creature, but becomes frustrated when it doesn’t develop as he expects. This frustration eventually turns to anger and then disgust.

It struck a chord with me as both a parent and an educator. I often find it frustrating when children don’t recognize my attempts to help, and instead resist or don’t cooperate. It’s especially upsetting when this happens with my own kids – when they’re disrespectful or don’t listen to directions.

This helps me understand why Frankenstein is so critical of his creation. There’s a moment where he tries to get the Creature to say something besides just “Victor,” and when the Creature can’t, Frankenstein gets angry. It’s like he forgets you can’t make someone learn—especially someone who’s essentially a child—you have to let them develop at their own pace and adapt your approach as needed.

That Said, I Would Never Abandon My Children, No Matter How Frustrated I Get

Victor doesn’t just reject the creature he made—he actively tries to eliminate it. I might get frustrated with my kids and occasionally take away privileges, but I could never abandon them, let alone try to destroy them, the way Victor does.

As a Black father, it’s important to me to challenge the harmful stereotypes that suggest Black fathers aren’t involved in their children’s lives or that we leave them. Unlike the character of Frankenstein, who quickly rejects his creation, I would never abandon my kids, no matter how challenging they might be. And honestly, they’re great kids – both are honor roll students – but even if they weren’t, my love and commitment wouldn’t waver.

Unlike Victor, who dwells on what his children lack, I focus on their talents and help them improve where they struggle. Victor only realized this approach was better much later on.

Read More

2025-12-10 19:08