Guillermo del Toro took a passionate stand against artificial intelligence while accepting the Vanguard Tribute at the 2025 Gotham Awards in New York City, Monday night. Incorporating the focus keyword ‘Guillermo del Toro Gotham Awards,’ the acclaimed director stated his unwavering belief in human creativity and dedicated the moment to the individuals behind his latest film, “Frankenstein.”
Director Honours His Team and Rejects AI in Film
Taking the stage at Cipriani Wall Street alongside Jacob Elordi and Oscar Isaac, del Toro openly challenged the use of AI in cinematic art. The recognition came after all three were announced as Vanguard Tribute recipients earlier in October. Del Toro emphasized the human effort involved in making their film, and in his speech celebrated the contribution of the entire creative team.
“I’d like to tell the rest of our extraordinary cast and our crew that the artistry of all of them shines on every single frame of this film that was willfully made by humans, for humans,”
Guillermo del Toro, Director
He went on to highlight the hard work of designers, builders, make-up artists, the wardrobe team, cinematographers, composers, and editors who brought the project to life.
“The designers, builders, make-up, wardrobe team, cinematographers, composers, editors, this tribute belongs to all of them. I would like to extend our gratitude and say: Fuck AI.”
Guillermo del Toro, Director
Audience Responds to Bold Statement at Ceremony
The energized crowd reacted with laughter and applause, showing support for del Toro’s outspoken rejection of AI’s place in artistic creation. Both Elordi and Isaac expressed approval as they left the stage with del Toro, smiling and applauding his remarks. The moment was widely shared on social media, reinforcing the director’s firm position on the topic.
“F*ck AI” says Guillermo del Toro at the #GothamAwards, accepting the Vanguard Award alongside Jacob Elordi and Oscar Isaac pic.twitter.com/zRw1XnUgTU”— VANITY FAIR (@VanityFair) December 2, 2025
‘Frankenstein’ and the Enduring Legacy of Human Creativity
The Gotham Awards previously highlighted why del Toro, along with Elordi and Isaac, was chosen for the Vanguard Tribute. The institute recognized “Frankenstein”—with Isaac portraying the iconic scientist and Elordi as the monster—as breaking new ground in cinema through artistic audacity. The film also features performances from Mia Goth and Christoph Waltz, further demonstrating the power of human-driven storytelling.
“Mary Shelley’s ‘Frankenstein’ has captivated audiences for more than 200 years, and Guillermo del Toro’s epic adaptation reminds us why this story continues to endure,”
Jeffrey Sharp, Executive Director, The Gotham Film & Media Institute
Sharp praised the team’s collaborative approach and their ability to create a work that honors Mary Shelley’s literary classic while addressing issues of humanity in bold new ways.
“Guillermo, Oscar and Jacob have created something truly breathtaking — a film that honors the literary legacy while boldly exploring profound questions about what it means to be human. Their collaboration embodies the melding of creativity, talent and vision that The Gotham aspires to celebrate.”
Jeffrey Sharp, Executive Director, The Gotham Film & Media Institute
The annual event celebrates films that redefine boundaries and encourage creative risks.
“Pioneering films that push the boundaries of cinema through fearless artistic choices.”
The Gotham Awards
The Future of Film in a Human-Focused Industry
With “Frankenstein” streaming on Netflix, the film’s visibility further spotlights del Toro’s message about the value of human artistry. His remarks, along with enthusiastic support from his cast, may strengthen ongoing debates around the use of technology in the arts and inspire filmmakers to champion traditional creative processes.
“F*ck AI” says Guillermo del Toro at the #GothamAwards, accepting the Vanguard Award alongside Jacob Elordi and Oscar Isaac pic.twitter.com/zRw1XnUgTU
— VANITY FAIR (@VanityFair) December 2, 2025
