Director Guillermo del Toro and the cast of his upcoming film "Frankenstein," including Jacob Elordi, Oscar Isaac, and Mia Goth, are set to receive the 2026 Visionary Award at the Palm Springs International Film Awards on January 3. The award, recognizing boundary-breaking cinema, marks the first time it will be presented jointly to a director and cast in recognition of their collaborative efforts.

Del Toro will also receive the Creative Impact in Directing Award the following day, January 4, at a special brunch during the festival. The Palm Springs International Film Festival's decision to honor "Frankenstein" underscores the anticipation surrounding the project, which del Toro has described as a lifelong ambition. "All my life, I’ve been aiming towards this movie," del Toro stated, emphasizing the personal significance of adapting Mary Shelley's classic novel.

Del Toro's fascination with "Frankenstein" aligns with his broader career-long exploration of monsters and outsiders, themes prevalent in his critically acclaimed films such as "Pan's Labyrinth" and "The Shape of Water." His unique visual style and penchant for blending fantasy with social commentary have garnered him a global following and established him as a leading figure in contemporary cinema. The adaptation of "Frankenstein" allows del Toro to engage with a foundational text of Western literature, one that has resonated across cultures and generations, exploring themes of creation, responsibility, and the nature of humanity.

The casting choices for "Frankenstein" also reflect del Toro's commitment to bringing a fresh perspective to the story. Jacob Elordi, known for his roles in "Euphoria" and "Priscilla," Oscar Isaac, recognized for his work in "Star Wars" and "Dune," and Mia Goth, acclaimed for her performances in horror films like "X" and "Pearl," bring diverse acting styles and international appeal to the project.

The Visionary Award and the Creative Impact in Directing Award acknowledge not only del Toro's individual achievements but also the collaborative nature of filmmaking, highlighting the contributions of the cast in realizing his vision for "Frankenstein." As the Palm Springs International Film Festival approaches, anticipation builds for further insights into del Toro's interpretation of this iconic story and its potential impact on global audiences.