Fk AI: Frankenstein Director Guillermo del Toro at Gotham Awards
The Gotham Film Awards 2025 was a night to remember, with renowned filmmaker Guillermo del Toro taking center stage to receive the prestigious Vanguard Tribute. The director, known for his imaginative and often dark storytelling, was accompanied by the lead actors of his latest film, Frankenstein, Jacob Elordi and Oscar Isaac. However, it was not just the accolades that made headlines, but del Toro’s bold and unapologetic criticism of artificial intelligence (AI) that stole the show.
As del Toro accepted the tribute, he took a moment to express his gratitude and acknowledge the hard work that went into creating his latest masterpiece, Frankenstein. In a passionate speech, he emphasized the importance of human creativity and the value of traditional filmmaking techniques. “Every single frame of this film…was wilfully made by humans, for humans,” he said, highlighting the dedication and craftsmanship that his team brought to the project.
But del Toro’s speech took a surprising turn when he directly addressed the growing presence of AI in the film industry. With unflinching candor, he declared, “I would like to extend our gratitude and say: F**k AI.” The audience was taken aback by the director’s blunt statement, but it was clear that he was not apologizing for his stance.
Del Toro’s criticism of AI is not new, but his willingness to speak out against it at a high-profile event like the Gotham Film Awards is significant. The film industry has been increasingly embracing AI technology, from using machine learning algorithms to generate special effects to employing AI-powered tools to assist with editing and color grading. While these advancements have undoubtedly improved efficiency and reduced costs, they also raise important questions about the role of human creativity in the filmmaking process.
For del Toro, the issue is not just about the practical applications of AI, but about the very soul of storytelling. He believes that AI lacks the emotional depth and nuance that human filmmakers bring to their work. By relying too heavily on technology, we risk losing the heart and soul of cinema, reducing it to a mere exercise in technical proficiency.
Del Toro’s comments also touch on the economic implications of AI in the film industry. As AI-powered tools become more prevalent, there is a growing concern that they will displace human workers, from visual effects artists to editors and even writers. This could have devastating consequences for the industry, leading to a homogenization of styles and a loss of diversity in storytelling.
The Frankenstein director’s remarks were not just a critique of AI, but also a testament to the power of human collaboration. His film, which brings together a talented cast and crew, is a testament to what can be achieved when creative individuals come together to tell a story. By emphasizing the importance of human involvement in the filmmaking process, del Toro is reminding us that cinema is not just about technology, but about people, passion, and creativity.
As the film industry continues to evolve, it is essential to consider the role of AI and its impact on the creative process. While technology can undoubtedly enhance and improve certain aspects of filmmaking, it is crucial to remember that human storytellers are the heart and soul of cinema. Del Toro’s bold statement at the Gotham Film Awards serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving human creativity and the value of traditional filmmaking techniques.
In conclusion, Guillermo del Toro’s criticism of AI at the Gotham Film Awards 2025 was a powerful statement that highlights the importance of human creativity in the film industry. As we move forward in an era of rapid technological advancement, it is essential to remember the value of traditional storytelling and the role of human filmmakers in bringing stories to life. By embracing the imperfections and nuances of human creativity, we can ensure that cinema remains a vibrant and diverse art form, capable of inspiring and captivating audiences for generations to come.
News source: https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/frankenstein-director-bashes-ai-at-gotham-awards/story
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