Not a Horror Film, But a Personal Story
“Someone asked me recently if it has scary scenes,” del Toro said. “For the first time, I really thought about it. It’s an emotional story for me. It’s as personal as anything I’ve done. I’m asking questions about being a father and a son. I’m not making a horror movie.”
The film, which will be released by Netflix this fall, stars Jacob Elordi, Oscar Isaac, and Mia Goth. Del Toro is again collaborating with Desplat, who composed the music for The Shape of Water and Pinocchio. The pair emphasized that the film’s tone will be lyrical and heartfelt.
Music to Match the Emotion
“Guillermo’s cinema is very lyrical, and my music is too,” Desplat said. “The score for Frankenstein will be emotional and melodic. I’m not trying to write anything scary.”
The two have not finalized the soundtrack yet, but they are focused on capturing the emotional core of the film. “We’re still finding the emotion,” del Toro said. “For me, it’s a very emotional movie.”
Empathy for the Creature
Del Toro is known for creating sympathetic portrayals of creatures in films like The Shape of Water, Cronos, and Hellboy. He often shifts the perspective to show the humanity in what others see as monsters.
Desplat recalled how The Shape of Water begins with a frightening creature who soon becomes a touching character. Del Toro agreed, adding that his early love for misunderstood characters began in childhood.
“The first time I wanted to defend a creature was after watching The Seven Year Itch,” del Toro said. “Marilyn Monroe says the creature just needed someone to like him. That scene made me fall in love with her — and with the creature. I’ve believed ever since that people just need to be seen the right way.”
Desplat Busy at Cannes
In addition to working on Frankenstein, Desplat is also the composer for two other films in competition at Cannes: Wes Anderson’s The Phoenician Scheme and Tarik Saleh’s Eagles of the Republic.
Related topics:
- Lili Taylor Joins ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’ as Mags
- Jamie Foxx to Star in Netflix Boxing Drama ‘Fight for ’84’ Directed by Andrés Baiz
- Quentin Tarantino Advises Young Filmmakers at Cannes: ‘You Only Have So Much Time’
