Makers & Mystics Creating Monsters: Guillermo del Toro's Frankenstein and the Horror of Unchecked Ambition
Nov 18, 2025
56:34
In this inter-seasonal episode, Stephen Roach is joined by returning guests Paul Anleitner and John Mark McMillan for a discussion of Guillermo del Toro’s new Frankenstein adaptation. Together they explore del Toro’s visual storytelling, the spiritual and theological roots of Mary Shelley’s original vision, and why horror remains one of the most powerful vehicles for truth in our modern age.
What We Discuss
- Mary Shelley’s Origin Story
The Geneva “ghost story” challenge, volcanic winter, and the dream that inspired Frankenstein—plus the timely synchronicity with Stephen’s upcoming book. - Del Toro’s Visual Parable
Color symbolism, the contrast between Victor and the creature, and how the film communicates its meaning through pure imagery. - Theology, Philosophy & Monsters
Del Toro’s spiritual connection to the story, humanity’s desire to play creator, and how horror works only within a moral universe. - Ambition, Ego & Shadow
Victor and the creature as two halves of the same self, crucifixion imagery, and why many successful people feel they’ve “created monsters” of their own. - Why Horror Still Haunts Us
Horror as enchantment, ancient narrative patterns, and our longing for stories that reveal hidden cosmic significance.
Guests
- Paul Anleitner – paulanleitner.substack.com
- John Mark McMillan – johnmarkmcmillan.com
Host
Stephen Roach, author of the upcoming How to See Invisible Things (October 2026).
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