Creating Monsters: Guillermo del Toro's Frankenstein and the Horror of Unchecked Ambition

from Makers & Mystics · host Stephen Roach

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 DiscussMary 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.GuestsPaul Anleitner – paulanleitner.substack.comJohn Mark McMillan – johnmarkmcmillan.comHostStephen Roach, author of the upcoming How to See Invisible Things (October 2026). makersandmystics.com • thebreathandtheclay.comSend us Fan MailSupport the showVISUAL ARTS RETREAT: If you're looking for creative renewal, meaningful connection, and space to deepen your artistic practice, I want to invite you to our upcoming retreat in Moravian Falls, North Carolina, July 10th through 12th. Applications are open, but space is limited. Sign Up for Our Newsletter! http://eepurl.com/g49Ks1Give a one-time donation https://buy.stripe.com/9AQeYj7431fD12waEOJoin the Makers & Mystics Creative Collective https://www.patreon.com/c/makersandmystics

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This episode was published on November 18, 2025.

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