Guillermo del Toro's 'Frankenstein' gets huge Venice Film Festival response

We don’t love that standing-ovation fetishization has migrated from Cannes to Venice, but it remains relevant when gauging award buzz and film reception. By that measure, 'Frankenstein' far outpaced 'Jay Kelly.' The film drew a 13-minute ovation that left Jacob Elordi and Oscar Isaac in tears, while Guillermo del Toro embraced them both multiple times as the crowd kept applauding.

The film’s Oscar prospects had been unclear before Venice. Some questioned the viability of a Netflix-backed adaptation of a story told countless times. The trailer impressed, but it was still 'Frankenstein.' Del Toro’s track record, including wins for best picture and best animated feature, offered reason for optimism, while skeptics argued the material could limit its chances.

If 'Frankenstein' is earning this kind of reception at Venice, it’s hard to argue it won’t be a major Oscars contender. With 10 slots available for best picture, the film appears likely to claim one. Guillermo del Toro could emerge as a long-shot best director nominee, and Oscar Isaac or Jacob Elordi may find themselves in the acting races. The open question is how voters will respond to Elordi’s portrayal of the monster.

This year’s Oscars already look primed for excitement, a welcome change after 2024’s ceremony, which in hindsight felt more like a shrug.

(h/t Variety)