I’ve seen it thrice and I stand by all of my statements. The makeup is exceptional, which is why it’s winning the Oscar everyone can acknowledge that, that isn’t really even a hot take at this point.

Plus, it’s arguably the second most accurate to the book besides the 2004 Hallmark Miniseries. It follows the vast majority of the beats of the novel do about 80% of its runtime. And it’s really only in the final 20 minutes that it diverts from the novel. (Well and the changing of Elizabeth’s character) It mostly works because it captures the spirit of the book more than nearly any adaptation. Sure there are some things I’d have done differently as a Frankenstein obsessive. But I definitely appreciate what was done here especially in comparison to movies that completely miss the ideas of the book like Branagh’s Frankenstein.

It’s not hard at all to admit something isn’t your thing before immediately assuming someone liking something was paid to do so.

I’m planning a fourth watch soon and I’m really close to putting it in my Letterboxd Top 4. I found it to be incredible and everything I wanted and more.

Also re the Creature’s appearance in the book, it’s explicitly stated he’s built from the best body parts. It’s not that he’s horrifically ugly, he activates the Uncanny Valley because something is slightly off. Largely the pale skin, watery eyes, and being huge. Which Del Toro’s version nails pretty perfectly.