Acclaimed director Guillermo del Toro has openly declared his refusal to incorporate generative AI into his creative process, emphasizing his dedication to human artistry. Speaking to NPR, del Toro stated he would “rather die” than adopt AI technology in his movie work, underscoring his firm stance against algorithm-driven filmmaking.
The Divided Entertainment Industry and AI’s Growing Role
Generative AI has become a contentious subject across the entertainment world, with some professionals welcoming its possibilities while others vehemently oppose it. The technology’s impact on media production is significant enough that the Japanese government has urged companies like OpenAI to act against plagiarism threatening its anime industry. This tension reflects broader debates over AI’s place in creative fields.
Industry Perspectives on AI’s Influence
Several notable figures illustrate the spectrum of opinions surrounding AI in filmmaking. Christoph Waltz supports del Toro’s use of practical effects, bluntly stating, “CGI is for losers.” In contrast, James Cameron highlights the urgency of addressing AI’s rise, calling it
“the most important issue in movies right now”
and warning of “very dangerous things ahead.” Meanwhile, Gabe Newell, co-founder of Steam, predicts AI’s influence will surpass that of CGI by tenfold and encourages filmmakers to embrace the technology, advising them to “actually use this tool” and adopt a younger, more experimental mindset similar to “19-year-olds with chatbot girlfriends.”
Del Toro’s Cautionary View: Natural Stupidity Over Artificial Intelligence
Del Toro draws a parallel between the reckless arrogance of Victor Frankenstein, portrayed by Oscar Isaac in his latest film, and the so-called tech entrepreneurs advancing AI without considering its consequences. He expressed,
“My concern is not artificial intelligence, but natural stupidity,”
highlighting a fear that human shortsightedness fuels many of the world’s problems. He continued,
“But 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.”
Upcoming Release and Broader Implications
Del Toro’s film Frankenstein, which explores themes tied closely to his views on unchecked technological advancement, is currently screening for a limited time in theaters before its Netflix debut on November 7. His outspoken position on Guillermo del Toro AI stance adds to ongoing conversations about how technology should be integrated—or resisted—in creative industries. The director’s comments highlight a growing divide and raise important questions about the ethical implications of AI’s expanding role in filmmaking.
