AceShowbiz - The cinematic world is abuzz with predictions for the 98th Academy Awards, and Guillermo del Toro's latest adaptation, Frankenstein, is emerging as a formidable contender. This modern take on Mary Shelley's "immortal novel" infuses del Toro's distinctive vision and personal touches into the traditional narrative, building on his celebrated history with the Oscars. While the most coveted categories remain fiercely competitive, the exceptional artistry showcased in Frankenstein positions it as a near-certain lock for several nominations, particularly in the craft divisions.

Despite a reception that might appear more subdued compared to the louder accolades garnered by presumed rivals for Oscar glory, such as Sinners or One Battle After Another, the Netflix film is undeniably on track for multiple Academy Award considerations. Its strongest suit lies in the "below-the-line" categories, where its commitment to visual storytelling truly shines. Categories like Production Design, Costume Design, and Makeup and Hairstyling are where Frankenstein is expected to dominate.

Beyond these craft nominations, Guillermo del Toro is also a strong candidate for Best Director and Best Adapted Screenplay, reflecting his comprehensive creative control over the project. Furthermore, Jacob Elordi's transformative portrayal of the Creature is generating significant buzz, making him a likely contender for a Best Supporting Actor nod. However, the competition in these major categories is intense, with films like Marty Supreme and Wicked: For Good potentially altering the landscape, making these nominations less of an absolute certainty.

What appears far more definite is the film's success in celebrating its lavish costumes, impressive sets, and overall gothic aesthetic. Guillermo del Toro's films have consistently excelled in these fields, and Frankenstein is poised to continue this distinguished trend. The movie is widely considered a frontrunner for Best Costume Design, Best Makeup and Hairstyling, and Production Design. These potential awards would underscore the film's dedication to constructing a vivid, immersive gothic world for Victor and his Creature, an aspect even the harshest critics have lauded.

While Sydney Sweeney's remarkable transformation in Christy is frequently cited as a strong contender for Best Makeup and Hairstyling, the memorable design and effective application of the Creature's monstrous appearance in Frankenstein—without diminishing any of Elordi's "painfully human performance"—should secure the film a nomination and position it as a clear frontrunner for the win. The period-accurate and exquisitely detailed costumes of Frankenstein further solidify its impressive artistic achievements.