Mia Goth, recognized as ELLE's November 2025 cover star and a prominent figure in the horror film landscape, is embarking on a new artistic journey with Guillermo del Toro's adaptation of 'Frankenstein'. While she has previously excelled in intense roles within the horror genre, such as the 'X' trilogy and 'Infinity Pool', this latest project offers a distinct challenge. Del Toro's interpretation of Mary Shelley's classic novel deviates from many earlier cinematic versions by delving deeper into the story's inherent romantic and emotional undercurrents, elements often overshadowed by the gothic horror aspects. Goth's role as Elizabeth, Victor Frankenstein's fiancée, requires a nuanced performance that explores themes of love, loss, and inner strength, presenting a departure from her usual psychologically intense characters. This transition showcases her versatility as an actress, as she brings a fresh perspective to a timeless narrative.
Mia Goth's portrayal of Elizabeth in Guillermo del Toro's 'Frankenstein' marks a significant evolution in her career. Unlike past roles that often focused on raw fear and psychological torment, her approach to Elizabeth centers on a more profound emotional landscape. She aims to reveal the character's humanity, courage, and heartbreak, rather than solely her sorrow. This interpretation stems from a meticulous study of Mary Shelley's 1818 novel, where Goth discovered a hidden romanticism within the epic tale of the Modern Prometheus. She articulated her desire to imbue Elizabeth with a complex blend of tenderness and resilience, acknowledging the character's profound humanity amidst a surreal and dark setting. This deliberate shift in focus allows Goth to explore a new dimension of her acting range, moving away from her established 'scream queen' identity.
The film's faithful adherence to Shelley's original text distinguishes it from numerous prior adaptations, which often prioritized the gothic horror elements over the underlying emotional narrative. Goth's dedication to capturing this often-missed romantic core presented a unique challenge. She observed that while many of her previous performances revolved around intense psychological horror or survival, Elizabeth demanded a different kind of vulnerability and emotional depth. Her preparation involved connecting with the character's inner world, focusing on themes of love and heartbreak and the search for light within tragedy, rather than simply portraying fear. This intensive emotional exploration contributed to a powerful and authentic performance, allowing her to transcend the typical horror tropes associated with her career.
In anticipation of the film's special screening at The Paris Theater in New York City, Goth meticulously curated her attire to mirror the fusion of gothic spirit and modern elegance inherent in her character and the film itself. She chose a striking sheer Ferragamo minidress from the fall/winter 2025 collection, adorned with intricate lace panels. Complementing this, she selected an exquisite suite of jewelry from Jean Schlumberger by Tiffany & Co., echoing the pieces she wore on her ELLE cover. Goth emphasized that wearing these archival Tiffany & Co. pieces helped her immerse herself deeper into the character, fostering a profound connection to the rich historical tapestry of both the novel and its cinematic adaptation. This thoughtful attention to detail highlighted her commitment to bridging the past and present, both in her performance and her public persona.
Looking ahead, Mia Goth expresses a keen interest in expanding her artistic horizons and exploring diverse roles that challenge her established image. She seeks projects that are unexpected and allow her to delve into different facets of her acting prowess, whether through dark comedies or authentic period dramas. Drawing inspiration from her previous experience in Jane Austen's 'Emma', she envisions a future filled with varied and enriching characters. This desire to embrace new and unconventional worlds underscores her commitment to continuous growth and her passion for transformative performances.
Mia Goth's latest venture into Guillermo del Toro's 'Frankenstein' showcases her evolution as an actress, moving beyond her established presence in the horror genre. By embracing the romantic and emotional depth of Mary Shelley's original novel, she portrays Elizabeth with a nuanced blend of love, loss, and strength. Her commitment to this complex character, coupled with her desire to explore diverse roles, highlights her artistic versatility and profound dedication to her craft. This new chapter promises to further solidify her reputation as a formidable and adaptable talent in the film industry, continually seeking unexpected challenges and meaningful narratives.