Fk AI: Frankenstein Director Guillermo del Toro at Gotham awards
The film industry has always been a hub for creative expression and innovation, but with the rise of artificial intelligence (AI), some filmmakers are starting to speak out against its growing influence. At the recent Gotham Film Awards 2025, acclaimed director Guillermo del Toro took the stage to receive the Vanguard Tribute, and his acceptance speech was anything but ordinary. Alongside the lead actors of his latest film, Frankenstein, Jacob Elordi and Oscar Isaac, del Toro used the opportunity to express his strong sentiments against the use of AI in filmmaking.
As he accepted the prestigious award, del Toro took a moment to acknowledge the hard work and dedication that went into creating his latest masterpiece, Frankenstein. He emphasized the importance of human involvement in the filmmaking process, stating that “every single frame of this film…was wilfully made by humans, for humans.” This statement was met with applause from the audience, but it was what came next that really got people talking. With a hint of sarcasm and a dash of passion, del Toro declared, “I would like to extend our gratitude and say: F**k AI.”
This bold statement has sparked a heated debate in the film industry, with some hailing del Toro as a champion of creative authenticity and others criticizing him for being close-minded to the possibilities of AI. As a director known for his imaginative and often unconventional approach to storytelling, del Toro’s comments have resonated with many who share his concerns about the growing reliance on AI in filmmaking.
Del Toro’s film, Frankenstein, is a testament to the power of human creativity and imagination. The film’s intricate sets, elaborate costumes, and stunning visual effects are all a result of human ingenuity and craftsmanship. By emphasizing the importance of human involvement in the filmmaking process, del Toro is highlighting the value of creativity, originality, and emotional depth that can only be achieved through human effort.
The use of AI in filmmaking has been a topic of discussion in recent years, with some studios and production companies exploring its potential to streamline certain aspects of the production process. However, del Toro’s comments suggest that he believes AI has the potential to undermine the very essence of what makes filmmaking an art form. By relying too heavily on AI, filmmakers risk losing the emotional resonance and human connection that makes cinema so powerful.
Del Toro’s sentiments are not isolated, as many filmmakers and industry professionals have expressed similar concerns about the impact of AI on the creative process. The use of AI-generated music, AI-powered editing tools, and even AI-driven scriptwriting software has raised questions about the role of human creativity in filmmaking. While AI may be able to perform certain tasks with greater efficiency and speed, it lacks the emotional depth, intuition, and creative spark that human filmmakers bring to a project.
The Gotham Film Awards 2025 provided a platform for del Toro to express his thoughts on the matter, and his comments have sparked a necessary conversation about the role of AI in filmmaking. As the film industry continues to evolve and adapt to new technologies, it is essential to consider the implications of relying too heavily on AI. By prioritizing human creativity and ingenuity, filmmakers can ensure that their work remains authentic, original, and emotionally resonant.
In conclusion, Guillermo del Toro’s bold statement at the Gotham Film Awards 2025 has ignited a crucial debate about the role of AI in filmmaking. As a director who has consistently pushed the boundaries of creative storytelling, del Toro’s comments serve as a reminder of the importance of human involvement in the filmmaking process. By embracing the imperfections and nuances of human creativity, filmmakers can create works that are truly original, emotionally resonant, and memorable.
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