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 in attendance. However, it was Guillermo del Toro, the acclaimed director of the upcoming film Frankenstein, who stole the show with his passionate and unapologetic critique of artificial intelligence (AI). Del Toro, who was being honored with the Vanguard Tribute at the awards, took the stage alongside his film’s lead actors, Jacob Elordi and Oscar Isaac, to express his gratitude and share his thoughts on the current state of the film industry.
As he accepted the award, del Toro began by praising the hard work and dedication of his team, emphasizing the importance of human creativity and craftsmanship in filmmaking. He spoke about the countless hours, sweat, and tears that went into bringing Frankenstein to life, and how every single frame of the film was “wilfully made by humans, for humans.” This statement was not just a testament to the film’s production quality but also a subtle nod to the growing concern about the increasing use of AI in the film industry.
Del Toro’s sentiment was met with applause from the audience, but it was what he said next that really made headlines. With a hint of defiance and a dash of humor, the director declared, “I would like to extend our gratitude and say: F**k AI.” The crowd erupted in cheers and laughter, with some attendees even giving del Toro a standing ovation. It was clear that his words had resonated with many in the room, who share his concerns about the impact of AI on the film industry.
Del Toro’s criticism of AI is not new, but it is certainly timely. In recent years, there has been a growing debate about the role of AI in filmmaking, with some arguing that it can enhance the creative process and others warning that it could replace human talent. The use of AI-generated content, such as deepfakes and automated editing tools, has raised questions about authorship, authenticity, and the very nature of filmmaking.
For del Toro, the issue is not just about the technical aspects of filmmaking but also about the soul and heart that goes into creating a film. He has always been known for his meticulous attention to detail and his commitment to practical effects, which he believes are essential to creating a unique and immersive cinematic experience. The use of AI, in his view, would only serve to homogenize and sterilize the filmmaking process, stripping it of its human touch.
Del Toro’s comments at the Gotham Awards were not just a rant against AI but also a call to action. He was urging his fellow filmmakers to resist the temptation of relying on AI and instead, to embrace the beauty of human imperfection. He was celebrating the fact that Frankenstein, a film that explores the complexities of human nature, was made by humans, for humans. In a world where technology is increasingly dominating our lives, del Toro’s message was a reminder of the importance of preserving our humanity.
The reaction to del Toro’s comments has been mixed, with some praising his courage and conviction, while others have criticized him for being overly simplistic or even nostalgic. However, it is clear that his words have sparked a necessary conversation about the future of filmmaking and the role of AI in the creative process.
As the film industry continues to evolve, it is essential to consider the implications of AI on our craft. While AI can certainly be a useful tool, it is not a replacement for human creativity, imagination, and passion. Del Toro’s message at the Gotham Awards was a reminder that filmmaking is not just about technology but about people, their stories, and their emotions.
In conclusion, Guillermo del Toro’s criticism of AI at the Gotham Awards was a bold and timely statement that has sparked a necessary conversation about the future of filmmaking. His comments were not just a rejection of AI but a celebration of human creativity, craftsmanship, and imperfection. As we move forward in this rapidly changing industry, it is essential to remember the importance of preserving our humanity and the unique qualities that make us human.
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