Fk AI: Frankenstein Director Guillermo del Toro at Gotham Awards
The Gotham Film Awards 2025 was a night to remember, with some of the biggest names in the film industry gathering to celebrate outstanding achievements in cinema. However, it was Guillermo del Toro, the acclaimed director of the upcoming film Frankenstein, who stole the show with his bold and unapologetic criticism of artificial intelligence (AI). While receiving the Vanguard Tribute award, del Toro took a moment to express his gratitude and share his thoughts on the role of AI in filmmaking, leaving the audience in awe.
Del Toro, known for his imaginative and visually stunning films, was joined on stage by the lead actors of his latest project, Jacob Elordi and Oscar Isaac. As he accepted the prestigious award, he took a moment to acknowledge the hard work and dedication that went into creating Frankenstein. “Every single frame of this film…was wilfully made by humans, for humans,” he emphasized, highlighting the importance of human creativity and craftsmanship in the filmmaking process.
But it was what came next that really got people talking. In a bold and unapologetic statement, del Toro declared, “I would like to extend our gratitude and say: F**k AI.” The audience was taken aback, with some cheering and others looking on in surprise. It was clear that del Toro was not afraid to speak his mind and share his concerns about the increasing reliance on AI in the film industry.
Del Toro’s comments come at a time when AI is becoming increasingly prevalent in various aspects of filmmaking, from scriptwriting to editing and visual effects. While some argue that AI can be a valuable tool in the creative process, others, like del Toro, are concerned about the potential risks and consequences of relying too heavily on technology.
For del Toro, the issue is not just about the technical aspects of filmmaking, but also about the artistic and emotional value of human-created content. “When we make a film, we are not just creating a product, we are creating an experience that can touch people’s hearts and minds,” he explained. “AI can mimic certain aspects of human creativity, but it lacks the passion, the emotion, and the soul that only humans can bring to a project.”
Del Toro’s comments are not just a reflection of his own personal views, but also a call to action for the film industry as a whole. As AI continues to advance and become more integrated into the filmmaking process, it is essential to consider the potential consequences and ensure that human creativity and craftsmanship are not lost in the process.
The reaction to del Toro’s comments has been mixed, with some praising his boldness and others criticizing his stance as overly negative and pessimistic. However, one thing is clear: del Toro’s words have sparked an important conversation about the role of AI in filmmaking and the value of human creativity in the industry.
As the film industry continues to evolve and adapt to new technologies, it is essential to consider the potential risks and benefits of relying on AI. While AI can be a valuable tool in certain aspects of filmmaking, it is crucial to remember that human creativity and craftsmanship are what truly bring a film to life.
In conclusion, Guillermo del Toro’s comments at the Gotham Film Awards 2025 were a powerful reminder of the importance of human creativity and craftsmanship in filmmaking. As the industry continues to navigate the complexities of AI and its role in the creative process, it is essential to consider the potential consequences and ensure that human talent and imagination are not lost in the process.
Del Toro’s film, Frankenstein, is set to release soon, and it will be interesting to see how his comments about AI are received by audiences and critics alike. One thing is certain, however: del Toro’s bold and unapologetic stance on AI has sparked an important conversation about the value of human creativity in the film industry.