LOS ANGELES – Acclaimed Mexican filmmaker and author Guillermo del Toro has lauded actor Jacob Elordi’s commitment to portraying Frankenstein’s Creature in his upcoming project, emphasizing the intense physical and emotional demands of the role.
Speaking with E! News’ Francesca Amiker, the Oscar-winning director revealed the arduous process Elordi underwent daily to embody the iconic monster. Del Toro highlighted the young actor’s work ethic in enduring a lengthy preparation ritual before filming even began.
“He took around 10 hours every day,” del Toro began, detailing the technical challenge. “About 42 pieces of makeup, prosthetics. And then he would have to work.” In the director’s view, Elordi faced this challenge with remarkable patience: “He did it all with grace and patience and love.”
To help Elordi connect with the ceremonial nature of the transformation, del Toro shared a unique piece of advice he gave the actor: “I told him, ‘Look, it’s like when a priest is getting dressed, there are many layers to the robes and the ceremonial guard. You have to think, this is your Ceremonial Guard. You’re invoking the Creature’.”
Del Toro described the finished performance as both emotionally resonant and deeply moving. “And the result is heartbreaking and beautiful,” he concluded. “It’s a really naked performance—emotionally so close to innocence that it breaks your heart.”
Beyond the demanding prosthetics, the director also noted Elordi’s dedication to preparing for the role through specific physical and intellectual pursuits, including taking Japanese butoh dance classes, known for its slow, controlled movements, as well as undertaking Bible readings, particularly the Book of Job.
