Jacob Elordi's journey to becoming Frankenstein wasn't just about acting; it was a transformation forged in the fires of personal struggle. He found a surprising 'blessing' in the pain.
Elordi, known for his roles, recently shared how his 'suffering' during the filming of a previous project, The Narrow Road to the Deep North, paved the way for his portrayal of Frankenstein in Guillermo del Toro's upcoming film. This isn't just a story about method acting; it's a testament to the power of turning personal hardship into artistic fuel.
During an interview with the Los Angeles Times, Elordi revealed the 'grueling' experience of shedding a significant amount of weight for the World War II miniseries. He described waking up in the dead of night, his body wracked with pain. But instead of seeing this as a setback, he found a deeper connection to the role of Frankenstein. He realized he could channel these feelings of anguish and exhaustion into his performance.
But here's where it gets controversial... Elordi wasn't just acting; he was undergoing a personal metamorphosis. He admitted to struggling with his purpose as an actor and feeling overwhelmed by the pressures of life. The role of the Creature offered an escape, a chance to 'go away' and rebuild himself.
He saw the Creature as a mask of freedom, a space where he could shed his old self and embrace a new identity. He found liberation in the makeup, which allowed him to break free from the constraints of his previous persona.
And this is the part most people miss... He rebuilt himself during the six months of filming, emerging with a 'whole new skin.' The film, also starring Oscar Isaac, Mia Goth, and Christoph Waltz, is based on Mary Shelley's 1818 novel, Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus. It is set to be released on Friday in select theaters and on Nov. 7 on Netflix.
David Rooney, The Hollywood Reporter's chief film critic, describes the film as a genre-defying masterpiece, a blend of tragedy, romance, and philosophical reflection. He calls it 'epic-scale storytelling of uncommon beauty, feeling, and artistry.'
What do you think? Do you believe that actors can truly channel their personal struggles into their performances? Do you think Elordi's approach is admirable, or do you believe there are healthier ways to prepare for a role? Share your thoughts in the comments below!