Frankenstein. It’s a tale that never dies. With this latest incarnation, visionary filmmaker Guillermo del Toro puts his signature spin on Mary Shelley’s classic novel. The result of this ambitious experiment? It’s in great hands.

The versatile Oscar Isaac plays Victor Frankenstein, a brainy and unhinged scientist who’s hellbent on creating life where it doesn’t initially exist. After gaining access to a creepy, abandoned tower, Victor builds his own laboratory, harnesses the power of lightning, and lays eyes upon his most significant creation yet: The Creature (played by Jacob Elordi).

From the sets to the costumes, this film is stunning to look at. Its unified aesthetic bursts with imaginative craftsmanship, and you get the impression that every detail was passionately concocted. Much like other films in Guillermo del Toro’s impressive filmography (“Pan’s Labyrinth,” “The Shape of Water”), he employs lighting and color in a way that not only lends to the atmosphere but also highlights the film’s core themes of life, death, love and rebirth.

The cast is well-chosen here. Oscar Isaac, while often on the edge of being over-the-top, is totally convincing in his descent into madness. Mia Goth, as Victor’s love interest, is the sensitive foil to Victor’s harsh energy. And the consistently great Christoph Waltz is magnetic as Victor’s sly mentor and investor.

As for The Creature himself, this is the most sympathetic portrayal to date. Despite possessing bone-crushing strength, there is a gentleness to him. He has a fondness for animals, he’s curious about the beauty of nature, and he craves meaning, connection, and acceptance. Jacob Elordi does a fantastic job in this role. It’s such a hulkingly physical performance, but it’s also complete with depth and subtlety.

In addition to its technical craft and stirring performances, what also keeps this film from being a disposable remake is its heavy, beating heart. The script is poetic and philosophical. It’s compassionate and conscious. It emphasizes the importance of being kind to anyone who is considered an outcast. Is the creature a monster or not? Is he something or someone? In this story, the answers to these questions are quite obvious. Guillermo del Toro’s “Frankenstein” isn’t just alive; it has a soul.

“Frankenstein” is available to stream with your Netflix subscription.

Zach Murphy is an avid enthusiast of cinema, theater and storytelling. He lives with his wonderful wife Kelly in St. Paul. You can read more reviews at his blog, Fade to Zach.