Guillermo del Toro's Frankenstein is a stunning addition to the Criterion Collection (physical media review)

Most of Guillermo del Toro's movies have been added to the Criterion Collection at this point, and most of them look stunning, especially those with a 4K release. Frankenstein is the movie that del Toro always wanted to make, as he frequently cites the influence of Mary Shelley's 19th Century novel and the Universal Monsters adaptations of it, especially Frankenstein (1931) and Bride of Frankenstein (1935), directed by James Whale.

So, it's no surprise that del Toro finally adapted the novel that's long influenced his work in some form or another. His version of Frankenstein, which initially was exclusive to Netflix, is a bold reimagining, loaded with Catholic imagery, a few character changes, and a drastically different ending than the book.

Now, Frankenstein has been added to the Criterion Collection, and it's well worth the price, especially because the set designs and costumes look absolutely gorgeous. The number of special features is another major positive.

Frankenstein is a visually arresting and gorgeous addition to the Criterion Collection

For those wondering if the Blu-ray and 4K Criterion versions of Frankenstein look and sound that much different than the Netflix version, the answer is a resounding yes. In general, physical 4K and Blu-ray releases have a far higher bitrate and less compression compared to streaming, so every stitch on the Monster (Jacob Elordi) and every elegant, Victorian costume that Mia Goth's Elizabeth wears really pop in finer detail and brighter color here. This movie bursts with eye-catching set designs and costumes, and they truly stand out with this release.

Additionally, there are a few scenes that are a major upgrade. The first is the opening sequence in the ice, when the Monster rages and tracks down his maker, Victor (Oscar Isaac). Because of the stronger sound design that the physical release contains, the Monster's bellows and roars are that much louder, but you also hear every crack in the ice and every creaky board on the ship. Additionally, some of the film's later explosions are another major upgrade. A lot of time and effort went into the production designs, models, and effects, and the Criterion release really underscores those details.

The Frankenstein Criterion release is loaded with special features

Here's the main selling point for me. The Frankenstein Criterion release is loaded with special features, beyond the standard film essay that accompanies all of their releases. There's a feature-length documentary about the making of the film, which really goes into great detail about the special effects, the costume choices, and most interestingly, some of the changes del Toro made for his adaptation, including drastically altering the age of William Frankenstein, Victor's brother. In the novel, William is a kid, but in this version, he's an adult engaged to Elizabeth. This adds additional conflict, while making Wiliam more of a character. Additionally, the documentary has extensive interviews with the cast.

Further, there's two fascinating interviews, one that punk rock godmother and writer Patti Smith conducted with del Toro and Isaac. This interview digs deep into the process of adaptation and Shelley's novel. The other interview was conducted by Martin Scorsese with Elordi, del Toro, and Isaac. This interview focuses more on the actual filming and less on the process of adaptation and Shelley's novel.

Finally, another positive is the fact this release comes with both versions of the movie, including the "Reborn" version. Not to spoil this cut, but there's a major scene that was removed from the theatrical and Netflix version of the release. James Cameron actually encouraged del Toro to remove it, but it's a pretty poignant scene, and now it's available.

While the price of the Criterion Collection's Frankenstein is a bit steep, nearly $40 for the Blu-ray and nearly $50 for the 4K, the special features alone nearly justify the cost. The visuals and sound design are definitely an upgrade. With Barnes & Noble hosting its 50 percent off Criterion sale throughout the month of November, this is a great release to scoop up.