Guillermo del Toro’s 'Frankenstein' Brings Netflix Back to Cinemas — At Least for Three Weeks
A $120M monster tale makes its big-screen debut.
Following the news that Guillermo del Toro’s long-dreamed Frankenstein will get an exclusive theatrical run, I couldn’t help but smile.
Netflix, usually reluctant to back cinemas, is giving the $120M gothic epic a rare three-week window starting October 17, before it streams on November 7. For del Toro, who’s chased this story since childhood, it feels like a small win for cinema itself.
A Monster with a Theatrical Heart
Del Toro has always defended the big-screen experience. "The theatrical experience is very important. I believe in it," he told Variety. Netflix will also release the film on physical media, just like Pinocchio. In today’s age of disappearing digital libraries, that’s refreshing, isn’t it?
The Cast and the Dream
Led by Oscar Isaac, Jacob Elordi, Mia Goth, and Christoph Waltz, with Ralph Ineson, Lars Mikkelsen, and Charles Dance in support, the film is packed with talent. It premieres at Venice and TIFF before heading into theaters. Not bad for a project many assumed would skip the big screen entirely.
Netflix, Slowly Shifting
This might still be an exception, as other Netflix awards contenders aren’t likely to get the same treatment. But between Frankenstein and Greta Gerwig’s upcoming Narnia, the tide could be turning. After all — if streaming’s future giants don’t also belong in theaters, what happens to cinema itself?
Once More, Just to Be Clear:
- In cinemas (limited run): October 17, 2025
- Streaming on Netflix: November 7, 2025
