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Guillermo del Toro to Receive Creative Impact in Directing Award

12/16/2025, 10:31:12 PM

Recognition at Palm Springs International Film Festival

Guillermo del Toro will be honored with the Creative Impact in Directing Award at the upcoming Palm Springs International Film Festival. This accolade is part of Variety’s annual 10 Directors to Watch and Creative Impact Awards brunch, scheduled for January 4, 2025. Del Toro's recognition comes in light of his extensive body of work, particularly his latest film, “Frankenstein,” which has garnered significant acclaim, including five Golden Globe nominations and 11 Critics’ Choice nominations.

Overview of "Frankenstein"

“Frankenstein,” an adaptation of Mary Shelley’s 1818 novel, premiered at the 82nd Annual Venice Film Festival in August 2024 and was subsequently released globally on Netflix in November 2024. The film features a notable cast, including Oscar Isaac, Jacob Elordi, Mia Goth, and Christoph Waltz. Del Toro's direction in this project has led to nominations for Best Director from both the Golden Globes and Critics’ Choice, reinforcing his status as a leading figure in contemporary cinema.

Del Toro's Career Achievements

Guillermo del Toro has a distinguished career marked by numerous accolades. He won Academy Awards for Best Picture and Best Director for “The Shape of Water” and received the Oscar for Best Animated Feature for “Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio.” Additionally, he has been nominated for Oscars for his work on “Pan’s Labyrinth” and “Nightmare Alley.” Ramin Setoodeh, co-president and co-editor-in-chief of Variety, remarked on del Toro's impact, stating that with “Frankenstein,” he demonstrates that he remains one of Hollywood’s most exciting visionaries.

Importance of the Award

The Creative Impact in Directing Award acknowledges filmmakers who have made significant contributions to the art of directing. Del Toro's recognition at the Palm Springs International Film Festival underscores his influence and the high regard in which he is held within the industry. The festival, running from January 2 to 12, 2025, will celebrate various cinematic achievements, with passes and tickets currently available for purchase.

Official Statements & Responses

In anticipation of the award, Setoodeh expressed excitement about honoring del Toro, highlighting his remarkable journey and the significance of “Frankenstein” in his career. The festival aims to celebrate not only del Toro's achievements but also the broader landscape of innovative filmmaking.

Verbatim Quotes

  • “It seems impossible that Guillermo Del Toro had anything left to prove after the heights of ‘Pan’s Labyrinth,’ ‘The Shape of Water’ and ‘Pinocchio.’ But with ‘Frankenstein,’ the movie he had been waiting his entire career to make, he reminds us that he’s not only one of Hollywood’s most exciting visionaries but a filmmaker for the ages,” — Ramin Setoodeh, Co-President and Co-Editor-in-Chief, Variety

This award marks another milestone in del Toro's illustrious career, further solidifying his legacy in the film industry.