Stepping Inside FRANKENSTEIN: Crafting a Tale Eternal & Guillermo del Toro’s Movie-Making Magic

Fans of Guillermo del Toro’s Frankenstein, streaming on Netflix, are being treated to a special event that gives a behind-the-scenes look of the film. For five days only, from January 6 to January 11, FRANKENSTEIN: Crafting a Tale Eternal has come to Los Angeles at NYA Studios West in Hollywood. The exclusive exhibit was previously in London, England, last fall and has crossed the seas to America. I had the fortune of walking through this immersive experience, and I left in awe.

When Mary Shelley published her gothic novel in 1818, she likely had no idea what a monumental impact her work would have not only on the literary world, but also on the worlds of horror and film. For the writer, it was a struggle just to get her name put as the author of the book. It was initially published anonymously; however, she would be credited a few years later. It’s ridiculous that she had to wait at all just because she was a woman who penned a controversial story. Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus has shaped the horror and science-fiction genres and influenced many writers that have come after Shelley. 

Director Guillermo del Toro has such a tremendous appreciation for Mary Shelley and her tale that he took great care when approaching his screen adaptation. If you’ve seen his other movies, such as Crimson Peak or Pan’s Labyrinth, then you recognize the beauty in his cinematic visions. There was no doubt that there would be numerous wonders to behold in an exhibition dedicated to his reimagining of Frankenstein. 

Before I get to details of the event, I first want to say a few words about del Toro’s version of the 19th-century novel. The 2025 Frankenstein had a limited theatrical release this past October and began streaming on Netflix in November. I had been looking forward to watching it for months after seeing various promos, teasers, and stills from the movie on social media. Besides being a fan of del Toro, I also admire actor Oscar Isaac who played Victor Frankenstein. Mia Goth, who assumed the roles of both Claire Frankenstein and Elizabeth, is also such a talented actress who has starred in many fantastic horror films, so I knew she would deliver an entrancing performance.

The movie was exquisitely done and captured the pain and suffering that’s intrinsic to the Creature’s experience. I won’t do a full movie review here, but I will say that of the many Frankenstein film adaptations, I feel Guillermo del Toro’s stays true to the essence of the narrative. I recommend seeing it on Netflix if you haven’t yet.

Since the 2025 movie was a wonder to behold on the small screen, seeing props, costumes, and artwork in person was surreal. There were even historical artifacts, including a copy of the first edition of Frankenstein inscribed by Mary Shelley herself to Lord Byron. There were photos depicting movie scenes; large canvases with details about the sets, characters, and production process; and elaborate displays that brought the movie to life right before my eyes.

It’s evident that wardrobe and jewelry are important to Guillermo del Toro when it comes to bringing his cinematic worlds to life. He wants these elements to look as authentic as possible to properly capture the time period. I loved seeing the ornate costumes, especially the bloodsoaked gown Elizabeth wears during a climactic scene. Even the worn and ragged garments of the Creature looked alluring.

The anatomical displays were some of my favorites to observe as they showcased Victor’s mad machinations and his unrelenting desire to play God and create life. There was also a magical mirror with the Creature’s reflection peering back at me. I even had a face-to-face encounter with the Creature. 

In a separate area was a listening room where attendees could sit to watch a short video about the soundtrack. Alexandre Desplat composed the music for Frankenstein. His pieces make the narrative unfold in an enchanting way and seamlessly move the action of the tale.

There was so much to see and while I managed to lay eyes on the entire exhibit, I could’ve spent longer taking in every section. There were lines of people waiting to enter and time slots were limited to about an hour. Visitors were being let in a few at a time to avoid overcrowding, but it was still packed inside. This made it difficult to linger in a single spot to fully read, watch, or observe certain things. However, it was special being among fellow fans of Frankenstein, Mary Shelley, horror, and Guillermo del Toro. We were all there to pay our respects.

As of the day I’m writing this, FRANKENSTEIN: Crafting a Tale Eternal is going on for a few more days, but tickets are nearly sold out. The event was free and only required tickets as placeholders, so it’s no surprise that as soon as word got out about the event, many people reserved their spots in advance. It’s amazing that an exhibit like this was made available at no cost to the public. I really appreciated that and am grateful I was able to attend. Seeing the amazing response the exhibition has received, it may make more stops across the globe. If you’re unable to experience it, I hope that my insight and pictures help convey some of the magic. 

Where to Stalk

Guillermo del Toro’s Frankenstein official website

Netflix Frankenstein

Frankenstein GDT Instagram

FRANKENSTEIN: Crafting a Tale Eternal – LA Exhibit