Guillermo del Toro Criticizes AI with Bold Comment on New ‘Frankenstein’ Film
Guillermo del Toro, the acclaimed director known for his unique cinematic style, is set to unveil his highly anticipated film, Frankenstein. This project represents a significant milestone in his career, reflecting his lifelong fascination with Mary Shelley’s iconic character.
Del Toro’s Influence and Inspiration
Speaking at the Lumière Film Festival in Lyon, del Toro remarked on the profound impact of Frankenstein on his creative journey. He first encountered James Whale’s 1931 film featuring Boris Karloff at the age of seven, an experience that forever altered his understanding of storytelling and faith.
- Age when he saw the film: 7 years old
- Year he read Shelley’s book: 1981 (the 1818 version)
- His cinematic influences: The Brontë sisters and Mary Shelley
Frankenstein as a Culmination of His Work
Del Toro expressed gratitude for the time he spent preparing to bring his vision of Frankenstein to life. He believes that the themes within the story, particularly concerning paternity and the legacy of human sins, required maturity and reflection that only time can provide.
“I’m happy that I’m older – and more tired – to tell this story,” he stated, drawing a parallel to Johnny Cash’s rendition of “Hurt,” emphasizing the necessity of personal experience in storytelling.
The Urgency of Human Emotion in Art
The director highlighted the pressing question posed by Shelley’s novel: What does it mean to be human? Del Toro argues that true humanity lies in the ability to seek and grant forgiveness.
He voiced concern about contemporary attitudes towards art, particularly in an age increasingly dominated by artificial intelligence. “We live in dangerous times,” he noted, lamenting a growing culture of shame around emotional expression and creativity.
- “Art is not important,” he quoted, underscoring the dangerous rhetoric surrounding art and technology.
- He emphasized the reality of his film: all sets are human-made, reconnecting viewers with authentic experiences.
His Bold Critique of AI
Del Toro concluded with a bold statement against the increasing reliance on AI in creative expression. “AI can go f*ck itself!” he declared, receiving a resounding applause from the audience.
Frankenstein is not merely a film; it is a passionate plea for genuine artistic expression, showcasing the essential role of human emotion in the creative process. The film is scheduled to hit select theaters tomorrow and will be available for streaming on Netflix starting November 7.
