Would Guillermo del Toro Really Prefer Death Over Using Generative AI in His Films?
Synopsis
In a bold declaration, Guillermo del Toro expresses his unwavering stance against generative AI in filmmaking, stating he would 'rather die' than use it. He draws parallels between modern AI developers and the arrogance of Victor Frankenstein, urging a cautious approach to technology.
Key Takeaways
Guillermo del Toro strongly rejects the use of generative AI in filmmaking.
He would rather die than incorporate such technology into his work.
Del Toro warns against the arrogance of blindly creating technology without understanding its consequences.
He draws parallels between AI developers and Victor Frankenstein .
The upcoming film, ‘Frankenstein’ , will premiere on Netflix on November 7 .
Los Angeles, Oct 26 (NationPress) The acclaimed filmmaker and three-time Oscar winner Guillermo del Toro has voiced his strong opposition to the advancements in artificial intelligence (AI).
He declared that he would “rather die” than incorporate artificial intelligence, especially generative AI, into any of his upcoming projects, as per reports from ‘Variety’.
In a recent interview with NPR, he likened the rising cultural obsession with this controversial technology to the “arrogance” exhibited by the main character in his Netflix adaptation of ‘Frankenstein’.
Del Toro stated, “AI, particularly generative AI, I am not interested, nor will I ever be interested. I’m 61, and I hope to be able to remain uninterested in using it at all until I croak. The other day, somebody wrote me an email, said, ‘What is your stance on AI?’ And my answer was very short. I said, ‘I’d rather die’”.
According to ‘Variety’, the director of ‘Pan’s Labyrinth’ explained that the real threats do not lie with the technology itself, but rather with “natural stupidity”, which could lead to the misapplication of AI.
He emphasized that “natural stupidity” contributes to many of “the world’s worst features”. He drew parallels between Victor Frankenstein and those spearheading the development of AI.
Del Toro remarked, “I did want it to have the arrogance of Victor (Frankenstein) be similar in some ways to the tech bros. He’s kind of blind, creating something without considering the consequences and I think we have to take a pause and consider where we’re going”.
Guillermo del Toro’s ‘Frankenstein’, based on Mary Shelley’s 1818 novel, features actors Jacob Elordi, Oscar Isaac, Mia Goth, Christoph Waltz, and Ralph Ineson. The film is set to premiere on Netflix on November 7.
Point of View
I find Guillermo del Toro's perspective on artificial intelligence in filmmaking both thought-provoking and essential. His insights reflect a growing concern within the industry about the ethical implications of technology. While innovation is crucial, it is equally important to address the potential risks that come with it.
NationPress
10 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Guillermo del Toro oppose generative AI?
Guillermo del Toro opposes generative AI due to concerns over its ethical implications and the potential for misuse, comparing it to the arrogance of Victor Frankenstein.
What is the release date of Guillermo del Toro's 'Frankenstein'?
Guillermo del Toro's 'Frankenstein' is set to be released on Netflix on November 7.
What are the main themes in Del Toro's statements about AI?
Del Toro's statements about AI highlight themes of responsibility in technology, the dangers of unchecked innovation, and the importance of considering consequences.
