Guillermo del Toro

‘Never fear the dead. Fear the living, they are the real danger.’
– Guillermo del Toro

Establishing himself as one of the foremost artists in contemporary Mexican cinema with Cronos, Guillermo del Toro now ranks as one of the most distinctive filmmakers of the modern era. A superlative visual artist closely associated with the gothic, horror and fantasy genres, del Toro frequently examines the nightmares of the past, often employing history to explore the traumatic passage from childhood to maturity. Equally at home on Hollywood and Spanish-language productions, del Toro revels in the collaborative process, while his aesthetic sensibility is matched by his affinity for actors. Achieving critical acclaim and commercial success in equal measure, the highly decorated director, who this month receives a BFI Fellowship, is also known for his support of and passion for animation and, as an impassioned cinephile, his role in the restoration and preservation of Mexico’s rich cinematic legacy.

Jason Wood and Justin Johnson, season curators

With thanks to

Cai Mason, Lisa Taback, Imogen Munsey and the Netflix team, Gary Ungar.

Re-release

Cronos

Del Toro’s debut is a stylish, original and politically potent vampire fable.

Events

Guillermo del Toro in Conversation

Come and hear from the BFI’s newest Fellow and one of the most distinctive voices in modern cinema.

Cronos + intro by Guillermo del Toro

Del Toro’s debut is a stylish, original and politically potent vampire fable.

Crimson Peak + Q&A with Guillermo del Toro

An under-appreciated gothic gem ripe for reappraisal and a companion piece to Frankenstein.

The Shape of Water + intro by Guillermo del Toro

Funny, romantic and terrifying, this is del Toro’s sensitive and sensual awards behemoth.

25 and Under: An Introduction to Guillermo del Toro

Aged 25 or under? Join us for a free introduction to Academy Award-winning director Guillermo del Toro.

Guillermo del Toro Sip and Paint

Let the artistic visions of Guillermo del Toro inspire you with this creative, collaborative painting session.

Guillermo del Toro Quiz

Join us for a quiz celebrating del Toro’s unique cinematic visions.

Tales of Arcadia + Q&A with Guillermo del Toro

We celebrate this classic animated TV show in the company of its creator, Guillermo del Toro.

Season programme

Mimic

A bruising experience for Guillermo del Toro, his first Hollywood outing nevertheless showcases his grand artistic vision and explores the dark side of scientific progress.

Mimic: Director’s Cut

A bruising experience for Guillermo del Toro, his first Hollywood outing nevertheless showcases his grand artistic vision and explores the dark side of scientific progress.