As we enter a time full of possibilities in the movie industry, the question must be asked: What are people looking for? Based on what has come out recently, all roads lead to Gothic content. From Guillermo Del Toro’s Frankenstein, Robert Eggers’s Nosferatu, Luc Besson’s Dracula: A Love Tale, all the way to the hit TV show Wednesday by Tim Burton, gothic media has taken Hollywood by storm.

But what draws people to this genre? People have always been fascinated by the horror genre, but what about gothic media? What stands out to people when they open their Netflix to check out the newest hits and see a gothic movie or show? Let’s dive in and check this genre out in depth to figure out what makes it unique.

For years, humans have been fascinated by darkness, secrets, mystery, suspense, and the supernatural, which are all elements of gothic literature and media. One of the oldest tales of this is Frankenstein, the beloved tale by Mary Shelley of science, creation, heartbreak, and humanity. This is one of the most recognizable pieces of Gothic literature and media ever. Originally written in 1818, Frankenstein tells the story of Victor Frankenstein as he looks to prove himself by creating a monster, also known as the creature. The novel was a success, but not without its critics, with many calling it “blasphemous.” Nevertheless, Frankenstein is a novel loved and praised for its creativity, themes of humanity and morality, and being one of the first of its kind to tell such a dark story in a way for everyone to understand and appreciate from its many perspectives.

Recently, Guillermo Del Toro released his movie, Frankenstein, on Netflix, with it receiving high ratings according to Rotten Tomatoes and IMDb. It is known that Frankenstein is a popular piece of media, but why remake it into a movie today, and why would audiences want to watch it? To take from Del Toro himself, he explains Frankenstein’s significance today: “You know, it’s the same questions we have now: What are we? Why am I human? Why am I here?” Frankenstein, as well as other pieces of Gothic literature, bring forth hard topics that are not easily understood or discussed in lighter novels. It delves deeper into the hardest parts of life, such as death, betrayal, heartbreak, etc. Audiences today are constantly bombarded with new movies, shows, etc, and many are tired of the same old thing with unoriginal plot lines and unfeeling characters. Gothic media flips the switch on this and gives the audience what they need by including immersive and engrossing tales, sometimes with tough themes that teach people about the hardships that life has to offer. 

By introducing original plots and interesting themes, audiences have something to look forward to when they turn on their favorite streaming service. Some of these movies are by no means an easy watch, but that also attracts viewers by putting people on the edge of their seats. With even more gothic movies coming later, such as Wuthering Heights coming in 2026, and a greater variety of gothic tales coming out in books, the people are fed what they want with a revival of gothic media. So get up, go sign onto Netflix, Goodreads, or wherever you find your gothic media, and start browsing!