Guillermo del Toro’s Frankenstein was already destined to be a streaming event—until IMAX CEO Richard Gelfond casually dropped a bombshell at Cannes. Now, the film might lumber onto giant screens first, stitching together Netflix’s theatrical ambitions with del Toro’s gothic grandeur.
Why This Isn’t Just Another Limited Run
Netflix has dabbled in theaters before (Glass Onion, The Narnia reboot), but an IMAX release for Frankenstein feels different. Two reasons:
- Del Toro’s Visual Spectacle: His creatures demand scale. Imagine the Creature’s rebirth in 12-channel surround sound.
- IMAX’s Prestige Play: Gelfond’s tease isn’t charity—it’s a bet that Netflix’s awards bait can fill premium seats.
Historical Context:
- Roma (2018): Netflix’s Oscar push proved streamers needed theaters for credibility.
- Glass Onion (2022): A one-week qualifying run, then $15M in tickets—showing money left on the table.
But Frankenstein could flip the script: What if IMAX becomes the first stop, not an afterthought?
The Real Experiment Here
Netflix’s Narnia deal (28 days in IMAX, 2026) suggests a long-game strategy. For Frankenstein, though, the stakes are higher:
- Director Clout: Del Toro’s fanbase might actually leave their couches.
- Hybrid Model Fatigue: Audiences are tired of “wait for streaming” limbo. A simultaneous (or early) IMAX run could reignite urgency.
Quote to Chew On:
“IMAX isn’t just a screen—it’s an event. Netflix is finally learning that.” — Anonymous studio exec (via The Wrap)
Your Turn
Would you shell out for Frankenstein in IMAX, or is this another half-brained experiment? Sound off—before Netflix changes its mind again.
