Mary Shelley’s *Frankenstein* isn’t just a classic; it’s a chilling prophecy. The tale of ambition unchecked and the dangers of playing God resonates now more than ever. In a world dominated by technological leaps and Silicon Valley titans, the story of Victor Frankenstein feels disturbingly familiar. It seems Guillermo del Toro understands this perfectly, crafting a *Frankenstein* for the tech bro era.
The Enduring Relevance of Frankenstein
Why does *Frankenstein* continue to grip our imaginations centuries after its publication? Because it holds a mirror to our deepest fears about unchecked progress. Shelley’s novel explores the ethical implications of scientific advancement, particularly when driven by ego and a disregard for consequences. This is a timeless theme, but it feels particularly acute in our current technological landscape.
Consider the relentless pursuit of innovation, often without considering the potential downsides. We celebrate breakthroughs, but rarely pause to ask: what are the potential costs? Who might be harmed? This is the essence of Frankenstein’s tragedy, and it’s a pattern we see repeated today.
Victor Frankenstein: The Original Tech Bro
Think about Victor Frankenstein’s motivations. He’s driven by a desire to achieve something extraordinary, to push the boundaries of science and claim a place in history. He’s arrogant, self-absorbed, and ultimately blinded by his own ambition. Sound familiar?
Guillermo del Toro’s adaptation promises to tap into this contemporary resonance. The character of Victor Frankenstein is practically a blueprint for the modern tech bro. He embodies the hubris and the detached rationalization that allows for devastating consequences. He believes he’s building something amazing, without considering the ethical quicksand beneath his feet.
His creation, the Monster, is not inherently evil, but becomes so because of Frankenstein’s abandonment and lack of responsibility. This, too, mirrors the unintended consequences that often plague the tech world. A brilliant idea can quickly become a destructive force if not carefully nurtured and ethically deployed.
Modern Monsters: Tech’s Unintended Consequences
It’s not hard to find modern-day Frankensteins in the tech world. Look at Mark Zuckerberg and Facebook’s role in propagating misinformation and even enabling violence, as seen in Myanmar. The relentless pursuit of growth and engagement, without adequate safeguards, created a platform for hate and division. Zuckerberg, like Frankenstein, created a monster he couldn’t control, and arguably, didn’t fully acknowledge.
Or consider Elon Musk’s repeated claims about Tesla’s self-driving capabilities. Accusations of false advertising and safety concerns highlight the dangers of overpromising and underdelivering, especially when human lives are at stake. Like Frankenstein, Musk seems driven by a singular vision, sometimes at the expense of truth and responsible development.
These examples are not to demonize technology or innovation. Rather, they serve as cautionary tales. They remind us that progress must be tempered with ethical considerations and a willingness to acknowledge potential harms. The pursuit of innovation at all costs can lead to monstrous outcomes.
Del Toro’s *Frankenstein*: A Timely Warning
Guillermo del Toro is a master of monsters, but he also understands the human heart. His films often explore the complexities of morality and the dangers of unchecked power. His *Frankenstein* adaptation promises to be more than just a horror film; it will likely be a thought-provoking commentary on our own era.
By framing Victor Frankenstein as a modern-day tech bro, del Toro can effectively highlight the ongoing relevance of Shelley’s original story. The film has the potential to spark important conversations about the responsibilities of innovators, the ethical implications of technology, and the importance of considering the human cost of progress.
In a world increasingly shaped by technology, *Frankenstein* remains a crucial reminder. It’s a warning against hubris, a plea for empathy, and a call for responsible innovation. Del Toro’s vision offers a timely and potentially terrifying reflection of our own creation. It’s a creation in which our reach is long but perhaps our understanding is not.
