Imaginary Worlds Bringing Guillermo del Toro's Frankenstein to Life
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Nov 5, 2025 Tamara Deverell, a talented production designer and longtime collaborator with Guillermo del Toro, dives into the creative process behind designing sets for his adaptation of Frankenstein. She shares insights into their unique visual communication style, drawing from Scottish landscapes for color palettes. Tamara discusses the innovative decision to set the lab in a water tower, blending historical science with fantasy. She emphasizes the enduring themes of Mary Shelley's work and the importance of handcrafted artistry in film, all while cherishing her collaborative bond with Guillermo.
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How The Project Began
- Guillermo del Toro first mentioned Frankenstein at a premiere party and later personally recruited Tamara Deverell for the project.
- Their long collaboration began with casual dramatic moments and evolved into a committed creative partnership.
Visual Language Beats Verbal Directions
- Del Toro and Tamara communicate primarily through images rather than adjectives or technical descriptors.
- They iterate with concept drawings, floor plans, and iPad sketches to reach a shared visual language.
Let Locations Define Palette
- Let locations and materials inform your color palette rather than forcing choices in isolation.
- Use scouting discoveries to adapt sets and story elements as the screenplay evolves.
