A Horror Classic Reimagined with Luxury and Lore
Guillermo del Toro’s Frankenstein made waves at the Venice International Film Festival, not just for its haunting visuals and star-studded cast—but for the jaw-dropping security surrounding one unexpected star: a 125-year-old diamond necklace.
The film, based on Mary Shelley’s iconic novel, features Mia Goth as Elizabeth, adorned with the Wade Necklace, a Tiffany & Co. heirloom commissioned in 1900 by philanthropist Jeptha Homer Wade II. With 40 carats of old mine-cut diamonds, the necklace required tighter security than some of the film’s A-list talent.
Jacob Elordi’s 10-Hour Transformation
Australian actor Jacob Elordi plays the creature in del Toro’s adaptation, undergoing 10 hours of prosthetic makeup daily to embody the tortured soul. According to del Toro, the process involved 42 individual pieces and candlelit cinematography to evoke a gothic, organic feel.
Elordi’s commitment to the role has drawn comparisons to classic method performances, with critics praising his physicality and emotional depth.
Festival Buzz and Release Timeline
Venice Premiere: August 30, 2025
- Theatrical Release: October 17, 2025 (limited run)
- Netflix Streaming: November 7, 2025
The film’s limited theatrical window is designed to build prestige before its global streaming debut, a strategy increasingly common among Oscar hopefuls.
The Necklace That Sparkled Differently
Christopher Young, VP of Tiffany & Co., revealed that the Wade Necklace “sparkled differently” on Mia Goth due to del Toro’s use of natural candlelight instead of artificial lighting. The necklace required no adjustments, fitting Goth “perfectly”—a detail that added eerie authenticity to the film’s period aesthetic.
Cultural Takeaway: Horror Meets Haute Couture
Frankenstein 2025 isn’t just a horror film—it’s a fusion of cinematic artistry, historical luxury, and emotional storytelling. For Zemeghub readers, it’s a case study in how genre cinema can elevate cultural discourse and redefine visual storytelling.