Beyond Fest, together with the American Cinematheque, has unveiled a comprehensive retrospective series honoring the distinguished career of Guillermo del Toro titled Está Vivo: The Gods and Monsters of Guillermo del Toro. The series showcases twelve significant films, spanning from del Toro’s debut feature to his latest work, highlighting the evolution of his filmmaking through restorations, special screenings, and director’s cuts.
This Guillermo del Toro retrospective series includes a 4K restoration premiere of Cronos, del Toro’s first feature, and extends through his recent film Nightmare Alley: Vision in Darkness and Light. The programming not only presents upgraded versions but also features rare 35mm screenings and carefully curated director’s cuts, emphasizing the artistic milestones in his career.
Director Participation and Thematic Journey Across Four Programming Blocks
Guillermo del Toro will personally participate in four thoughtfully designed blocks within the retrospective, offering audiences insight into his creative process and personal reflections. These presentations explore the recurring themes of monsters, humanity, and imagination that have defined his work, while building excitement for his upcoming film Frankenstein, slated for release later this year.
Ticket sales for the series will open on Thursday, September 4th, at noon PST via the American Cinematheque website. Interested viewers are encouraged to visit Beyond Fest’s and American Cinematheque’s official pages for further details.
Exploring Emotional Depth in Key Films: In The Mood For Love
The retrospective’s opening block, titled In The Mood For Love, presents a trio of films embodying del Toro’s balance between beauty and horror. This lineup features the gothic romance Crimson Peak, the Academy Award-winning The Shape of Water, and his newly refined 2022 version of Nightmare Alley: Vision in Darkness and Light. This selection reflects del Toro’s unique ability to blend fantastical elements with profound human emotion.
Del Toro’s Passion for Comics Showcased in From Sketch to Screen
From Sketch to Screen highlights del Toro’s deep affinity for comic books through three bold adaptations: Hellboy, Hellboy II: The Golden Army, and Blade II. These films reveal his distinctive approach to superhero narratives and his influence on modern genre cinema, enriching audiences’ understanding of his stylistic and storytelling priorities.
Showcasing Early Creative Vision with The Early Years Collection
The retrospective also pays tribute to del Toro’s formative works in The Early Years block. It features the theatrical 4K restoration premiere of Cronos, the Los Angeles premiere of the 4K restoration of The Devil’s Backbone, and the director’s cut of Mimic, which was his first studio feature. These films display the early emergence of del Toro’s gothic fantasies, innovative practical effects, and emotional storytelling hallmarks.
Masterwork Spotlight: The Cultural Impact of Pan’s Labyrinth
The series culminates with a dedicated evening for Pan’s Labyrinth, one of del Toro’s most acclaimed works. The film’s rich imagery, complex symbolism, and emotionally powerful narrative solidified his standing as a visionary filmmaker and a vital voice in international cinema. This screening promises a unique experience that reflects the film’s lasting influence on audiences and filmmakers alike.
Complete Film Lineup and Special Screenings Details
In The Mood For Love
- Crimson Peak (2015, 119 mins, USA) – Special Screening
- Nightmare Alley: Vision in Darkness and Light (2021, 159 mins, USA/Mexico/Canada) – Special Screening
- The Shape of Water (2017, 123 mins, USA) – Special Screening with Guillermo del Toro post-screening Q&A
From Sketch to Screen
- Hellboy (2004, 122 mins, USA) – Special Screening with pre-screening Q&A by Guillermo del Toro
- Hellboy II: The Golden Army (2008, 120 mins, USA) – Special Screening
- Blade II (2002, 117 mins, USA) – Special Screening
The Early Years
- Cronos (1993, 92 mins, Mexico) – 4K Restoration, Theatrical Premiere courtesy Janus Films
- The Devil’s Backbone (2001, 106 mins, Spain/Mexico) – 4K Restoration, Los Angeles Premiere courtesy Sony Pictures Classics
- Mimic (1997, 105 mins, USA) – Director’s Cut, Special Screening with post-screening Q&A by Guillermo del Toro
The Revolution
- Pan’s Labyrinth (2006, 120 mins, Spain/Mexico) – Special Screening with pre-screening Q&A by Guillermo del Toro
Additional screenings outside the main blocks include:
- Pacific Rim (2013, 131 mins, USA) – Special Screening at Los Feliz 3
- Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio (2022, 117 mins, USA/Mexico) – Special Screening
Honoring Guillermo del Toro’s Enduring Influence on Cinema
Evrim Ersoy, Head of Programming at Beyond Fest, emphasized the filmmaker’s profound impact:
“Guillermo del Toro’s films have inspired generations of filmmakers and audiences alike in a way unlike any other artist we’ve experienced,”
and added,
“To welcome him and celebrate his artistic vision on this scale truly honors who he is as both a creative force of nature and a proudly obsessive servant of Cinema.”
This retrospective series not only showcases del Toro‘s diverse filmography but also deepens appreciation for his artistic contributions, promising fans an unparalleled opportunity to experience his work in enriched formats. Looking ahead, the series sets the stage for continued anticipation of his upcoming projects, reinforcing his status as a leading visionary in contemporary film.
