Fk AI: Frankenstein Director Guillermo del Toro at Gotham Awards
The 2025 Gotham Film Awards took a dramatic turn when acclaimed filmmaker Guillermo del Toro took the stage to receive the Vanguard Tribute. Del Toro, known for his visually stunning and often dark fantasy films, was joined by the lead actors of his latest project, Frankenstein, Jacob Elordi and Oscar Isaac. However, it was not just the celebration of his film that made headlines, but also his scathing criticism of artificial intelligence (AI) in the film industry.
As del Toro accepted the prestigious award, he took a moment to express his gratitude to the team that worked tirelessly to bring his vision of Frankenstein to life. In a passionate speech, he emphasized the importance of human creativity and labor in filmmaking. “Every single frame of this film…was wilfully made by humans, for humans,” he said, highlighting the painstaking efforts of his cast and crew.
However, it was his next statement that sent shockwaves through the audience and sparked a lively debate on social media. “I would like to extend our gratitude and say: F**k AI,” the director added, leaving no ambiguity about his stance on the role of artificial intelligence in filmmaking. This bold declaration was met with a mix of applause and gasps, as the audience was taken aback by del Toro’s unapologetic criticism of AI.
Del Toro’s statement was not just a fleeting moment of frustration; it reflects a deeper concern about the increasing reliance on AI in the film industry. With the rapid advancement of technology, AI has become an integral part of various aspects of filmmaking, from special effects to editing. While AI can undoubtedly enhance the efficiency and quality of certain processes, del Toro’s comments suggest that he values the human touch and creative input that AI cannot replicate.
The use of AI in filmmaking has been a topic of discussion among industry professionals, with some embracing its potential to streamline production and reduce costs. However, others, like del Toro, are wary of the consequences of relying too heavily on AI, citing concerns about the loss of jobs, the homogenization of creative output, and the potential for AI-generated content to lack the emotional depth and nuance that human creators bring to a project.
Del Toro’s film, Frankenstein, is a prime example of the kind of cinematic experience that AI cannot replicate. The film’s intricate sets, elaborate costumes, and carefully crafted performances are all testaments to the skill and dedication of human artists. By emphasizing the human element in his film, del Toro is making a statement about the importance of preserving traditional filmmaking practices and the value of human creativity in the face of technological advancements.
The reaction to del Toro’s comments has been varied, with some hailing him as a champion of artistic integrity and others criticizing him for being out of touch with the realities of modern filmmaking. However, regardless of one’s opinion on the matter, it is clear that del Toro’s statement has sparked a necessary conversation about the role of AI in the film industry and the importance of preserving human creativity in the face of technological advancements.
As the film industry continues to evolve and adapt to new technologies, it is essential to consider the implications of relying on AI and to find a balance between innovation and tradition. Del Toro’s comments serve as a reminder that, even in the age of AI, there is still value in the human touch and the creative input that only human artists can provide.
In conclusion, Guillermo del Toro’s bold statement at the Gotham Film Awards has ignited a lively debate about the role of AI in filmmaking. While some may disagree with his views, it is undeniable that his passion and commitment to preserving human creativity in the film industry are admirable. As we look to the future of cinema, it is essential to consider the importance of balancing technological advancements with the value of human artistic input.
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