In a thought-provoking speech that resonated deeply with the film industry, Guillermo del Toro, the renowned Oscar-winning director, raised an alarm about the potential threats posed by AI and business consolidation to the very essence of cinema and creative freedom. Del Toro's passion for film and its ability to connect and inspire is evident, and he fears that we are on the brink of a new era of 'image illiteracy' and 'cinema illiteracy'.
The Sacred Pact
Del Toro emphasizes the ancient bond between humans and images, a connection that has endured since the earliest cave paintings. He sees art as a unifier, a force that can bring people together, especially in these polarized times. However, he warns that this sacred pact is under threat, with artificial intelligence being a form of 'natural stupidity' that undermines the very purpose of images - to connect and evoke beauty.
AI's Encroachment
The director's concerns are not just theoretical; he believes AI's encroachment into the creative process threatens the very humanity of art. "We are told images can be generated by artificial means," he says, "but the existence of an image is not just to be there. It is to connect us, to make us feel." Del Toro's perspective is a stark reminder of the unique, irreplaceable role that human creativity plays in our cultural landscape.
A Master's Perspective
Ted Sarandos, co-CEO of Netflix, introduces del Toro as a modern master, recalling his first encounter with the director during a creative meeting for "Trollhunters." Sarandos describes how del Toro 'created a universe' in that meeting, a testament to his unique creative vision. This anecdote highlights the importance of individual creativity and the potential loss if AI were to dominate the creative process.
The BFI Fellowship
The BFI Fellowship, the highest honor in film, is a recognition of del Toro's impact on the world of cinema. Del Toro's connection to the BFI goes back to his teenage years, when he would request 16mm prints of classic films to screen for his cinema club. Now, he plans to donate a third of his own archives to the BFI, further cementing his legacy and his commitment to preserving and promoting film.
Teaching and Advocacy
Del Toro sees himself in a new phase of his life, one of 'giving back'. He wants to teach and advocate for film, sharing his knowledge and passion with others. He plans to teach classes on early Alfred Hitchcock films for the BFI, ensuring that the genius of these classics is passed on to future generations. Del Toro's vision is to open the 'church of cinema' to more people, to save them, as he says, "by images."
The Permanence of Film
Del Toro celebrates the permanence of film, the fact that movies are living entities that spark anew with each viewing. He believes that classics like Preston Sturges' "Sullivan's Travels" are not of the past but are present every time someone watches them for the first time. This perspective highlights the timeless nature of great cinema and its ability to transcend time and connect with audiences across generations.
A Call to Action
In his impassioned speech, del Toro urges the industry to rally around filmmaking, using a vehicular metaphor to emphasize the urgency of the situation. "Right now, the bus is so close to a cliff, we all have to lean to the right side," he says. This call to action is a powerful reminder of the collective responsibility to protect and promote the art of filmmaking in the face of technological and business challenges.
Conclusion
Del Toro's speech is a wake-up call, a reminder of the importance of human creativity and the potential threats it faces in a world increasingly dominated by technology. His perspective, rooted in a deep love for film and its history, offers a unique and valuable insight into the future of cinema and the role of artists in shaping it.
