For Guillermo del Toro, “rather die” than use generative AI

The tech world is playing Frankenstein, and the Mexican director doesn’t like it.

Several major directors have expressed their attraction (at different levels) to artificial intelligence in cinema, from James Cameron to George Miller via Paul Schrader. Other authors, however, are totally hostile to this technological news, as intriguing as it is terrifying for the future of creation and creators.

The most vehement is undoubtedly Guillermo del Toro. During an interview on NPR (the American Radio France) to promote his Frankensteinwhich is released on November 7 on Netflix, the Mexican director has put a new spin on AI, also attacking its promoters, highlighting the obvious parallel with the figure of Victor Frankenstein, creator of a monster over which he loses control.

“What worries me is not artificial intelligence, but natural stupidity. I believe this is what is responsible for many of the worst creations in the world. Victor’s arrogance is in some ways similar to that of techies. He’s a bit blind, he creates something without taking into consideration the consequences and I think we need to stop for a moment to assess where we’re going.”

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The temptation of generative AI (capable of generating text, images or videos) is great, including in Hollywood where it could tomorrow invade screenwriting, animation, digital special effects or even replace actors. Del Toro swears he will never succumb to it:

“AI, especially generative AI, doesn’t interest me and it never will. I’m 61 years old, and I hope I keep this disinterest until I die. The other day, someone asked me by email my position on AI. My response was very short, I said: ‘rather die‘.”