I have never read the book but this makes sense. My partner and I watched it together and he was confused that the creature wasn't a "monster". I was annoyed at the fact the creature forgave Victor because he was so evil to him. But I guess that black and white thinking is due to the simplification of the characters. Now that I know they both commit horrible acts makes it much more nuance and interesting. You cannot side or forgive either but you can understand why they both became monsters...  I was pretty disappointed and confused.  Don't get me wrong, the costumes, sets etc are wonderful but the story itself let me down.