Guillermo del Toro Rejects Generative AI Use in Films

Oscar-winning director Guillermo del Toro has firmly rejected the use of generative AI, telling NPR he’d “rather die” than use AI-generated video and saying he remains uninterested in the technology. He likened today’s “tech bros” to Victor Frankenstein, warned of “natural stupidity,” and argued ones-and-zeros cannot capture the “alchemy of emotion” that defines human artistry. Del Toro has joined other creatives in publicly rebuking AI and defending human artistry and ethical reflection. Commentators have linked his stance to broader concerns about the environmental costs and copyright infringement associated with large AI models. His new Frankenstein, reimagined from the creature’s point of view with miniature effects and distinctive creature design, is in limited theaters now and will premiere on Netflix on November 7.