Guillermo del Toro's Stand Against AI in Film

Celebrated Filmmaker Prefers Death Over Using Generative AI in His Work

Guillermo del Toro, the acclaimed filmmaker, has made his position on generative AI in his creative process crystal clear. During a recent interview promoting his Netflix series based on "Frankenstein," del Toro stated bluntly that he would rather pass away than use AI in his work.

A Longstanding Disdain for AI

Del Toro's disdain for AI is not a new development. He has been vocal about his opinions for some time. In 2023, he went as far as to call AI an "insult to life itself." His perspective is rooted in a belief that art should be a reflection of human emotion and experience, something he feels AI cannot replicate.

"Frankenstein" as a Metaphor for AI Concerns

The filmmaker's adaptation of "Frankenstein" serves as a metaphor for his concerns about AI. He sees parallels between Victor Frankenstein's reckless creation and the current trajectory of AI development. Both involve actions taken without fully considering the consequences. Del Toro questions where AI is heading and what impact it will have on humanity.

The Real Issue: Human Folly

Del Toro's criticism extends beyond AI itself. He believes that the real issue is not the technology but the people behind it. He refers to this as "natural stupidity," suggesting that human folly is often the root cause of the world's problems. He also compares the arrogance of tech entrepreneurs to that of Victor Frankenstein, implying that both groups act without fully understanding the implications of their actions.

The Value of Human Creativity

Despite his strong opinions, del Toro's work continues to be highly regarded. His ability to create emotionally resonant stories is a testament to his belief in the power of human creativity. He argues that art's value lies not in its cost or the ease of its creation but in the emotional and spiritual connection it fosters.