Stirling landmark used in major film

Oscar-winning filmmaker Guillermo del Toro has used the Wallace Monument in Stirling as the inspiration for his latest film.

The landmark is the model for the scientist's laboratory in his new film "Frankenstein".

The "Pinocchio" and "The Shape of Water" director visited the monument more than two years ago with key production crew.

The film is being released on Netflix on Friday, after a successful nationwide cinema release.

The Monument opened in 1869.

Production Designer Tamara Deverell said: “The Wallace Monument was a very strong design influence for the look of our Abandoned Water Tower, which transforms into Victor Frankenstein’s cliffside laboratory.

“Guillermo, our concept artist Guy Davis, and I visited the Monument on our first location scout in Scotland in April 2023. We used the overall silhouette, the textures of the stone, the arched architecture, and, particularly, the turreted top in the design of our Frankenstein Tower.

“Like so much of Scotland, our first view of the Wallace Monument rising on a high point in the mist over the countryside was both breathtaking and extraordinarily inspirational!”

Hannah Lucas, Commercial and Operations Manager at The National Wallace Monument, added: “We were delighted to arrange a visit for Mr del Toro and his team. We know how much they enjoyed their experience, particularly the striking architecture and breathtaking views across Stirling and surrounding areas.

“Many of our visitors ask about the connection between The National Wallace Monument, William Wallace and ‘Braveheart’, and we’re so pleased to recognise our role in another high-profile movie. We look forward to seeing the representation of the Monument in ‘Frankenstein’ when it is released this week on Netflix.”

Stirling Council leader, Cllr Gerry McGarvey, said: “The National Wallace Monument has been an iconic part of the Stirling and Scottish landscape for more than 150 years.

“It’s no surprise its Gothic architecture still continues to inspire and we’re delighted and proud to see its magnificent design represented in the new ‘Frankenstein’ movie from such a renowned filmmaker as Guillermo del Toro.

“The Monument attracted more than 130,000 visitors last year from all over the world and many ask about the connection with movies, particularly ‘Braveheart’. Our team are now weaving conversations about ‘Frankenstein’ into chats with the public around its ongoing significance in popular culture.

“As we celebrate the release of ‘Frankenstein’, it’s fitting we are also progressing with the exciting and transformational Stirling Studios project, due to be completed in 2026. This means in the future we will be able to host high-end cinema and television productions here in Stirling, delivering significant economic benefits in another key sector of the Scottish economy.” 

VisitScotland’s Film and Creative Industries Manager, Jenni Steele, said: “The release of Frankenstein is another fantastic addition to Scotland’s set-jetting locations.

“With our country’s gothic architecture, historic buildings, atmospheric streets and striking landmarks, like The National Wallace Monument, there’s plenty to inspire film makers, as well as producers, artists and even visitors.

“Our hope is that this new release will encourage fans to find out more and explore Scotland’s links with Mary Shelley’s famous creation for themselves.”