Guillermo del Toro's AI Stance: "I'd Rather Die" Than Use Generative Tech

Guillermo del Toro has taken a firm stand against using artificial intelligence in his films. The acclaimed director declared he would "rather die" than incorporate generative AI into his creative process. He compared modern AI developers to Victor Frankenstein, criticizing their arrogance in creating without considering consequences. Del Toro's new Frankenstein adaptation starring Jacob Elordi and Oscar Isaac will stream on Netflix starting November 7.

Key Points: Guillermo del Toro Would Rather Die Than Use AI in Films

  • Director compares AI developers to Victor Frankenstein's blind arrogance
  • Del Toro calls "natural stupidity" the real danger behind AI misuse
  • He vows to remain uninterested in generative AI throughout his entire career
  • New Frankenstein film stars Jacob Elordi, Oscar Isaac streaming November 7
2 min read

I'd rather die: Frankenstein director Guillermo del Toro on using Generative AI in his films

Frankenstein director Guillermo del Toro declares he'd "rather die" than use generative AI in filmmaking, comparing tech developers to Victor Frankenstein's arrogance.

"I'd rather die - Guillermo del Toro"

Washington DC, October 26

Frankenstein director Guillermo del Toro asserted that he would "rather die" than use artificial intelligence, "particularly generative AI," in any of his future films, reported Variety.

In an interview with NPR, as quoted by Variety, Del Toro compared the growing cultural fascination with AI, saying that he has never been interested in this new tech.

"AI, particularly generative AI -- I am not interested, nor will I ever be interested. I'm 61, and I hope to be able to remain uninterested in using it at all until I croak. The other day, somebody wrote me an email, saying 'What is your stance on AI?' And my answer was very short. I said, 'I'd rather die,'" said Guillermo del Toro to NPR as quoted by Variety.

The director explained that the true dangers aren't with the technology itself, but with "natural stupidity," which could drive the mishandling of AI.

He added that "natural stupidity" is what pushes "most of the world's worst features." He went on to connect the character of Victor Frankenstein to those at the forefront of AI development.

"I did want it to have the arrogance of Victor [Frankenstein] be similar in some ways to the tech bros," he said.

"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," added del Toro as quoted by Variety.

Del Toro's "Frankenstein," adapted from Mary Shelley's 1818 novel of the same name, stars Jacob Elordi, Oscar Issac, Mia Goth, Christoph Waltz and Ralph Ineson. The film will stream on Netflix on November 7.

- ANI

Share this article:

Reader Comments

R
Rahul R
"Natural stupidity" - what a brilliant way to put it! We're seeing this everywhere in India too with people rushing to use AI without understanding the consequences. Del Toro gets it right.
A
Anjali F
While I admire his principles, isn't this a bit extreme? AI tools can help artists, not replace them. In our Indian film industry, technology has always enhanced storytelling. Maybe he should reconsider?
V
Vikram M
Comparing tech bros to Victor Frankenstein is spot on! In India, we've seen how unchecked technology can create problems. We need more voices like del Toro's in the creative industry.
S
Sarah B
As someone working in Bangalore's tech scene, I appreciate his honesty but disagree. AI is a tool - it's how we use it that matters. Indian developers are creating ethical AI solutions that could actually help artists.
K
Karthik V
His Frankenstein adaptation sounds amazing! And now knowing he's keeping it pure human creativity makes me even more excited to watch on Netflix. This is the kind of artistic integrity we need more of! ✨

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50