Guillermo del Toro Best Movie - Very Best of All Time

Guillermo del Toro, born on October 9, 1964, in Guadalajara, Mexico, is an acclaimed filmmaker, author, and producer known for his visually lush style and his penchant for blending horror, fairy tale, and dark fantasy elements. His films often delve into the realm of the supernatural and the macabre, with a deep undercurrent of emotion and empathy for his characters, both human and monstrous. Del Toro’s affinity for monsters, both literal and metaphorical, runs as a common thread throughout his work, reflecting his belief in their symbolic significance and their representation of human fears and desires.

del Toro’s works have praised for their ability to blend fantasy with emotional depth. But if you had to recommend one to a friend, which would it be? Let’s vote.

Year	Title	Rotten Tomatoes Rating
1993	Cronos	91%
2001	The Devil's Backbone	92%
2002	Blade II	57%
2004	Hellboy	81%
2006	Pan's Labyrinth	95%
2008	Hellboy II: The Golden Army	86%
2013	Pacific Rim	71%
2015	Crimson Peak	72%
2017	The Shape of Water	92%
2021	Nightmare Alley	80%
2022	Pinocchio	96%

Cronos

Cronos is Guillermo del Toro’s directorial debut and introduces audiences to his fascination with the supernatural. In the film, an antique dealer discovers a centuries-old device that grants eternal life but comes with a thirst for blood. It’s a unique take on the vampire mythos, layered with del Toro’s characteristic blend of horror and fairy tale.

Year Released: 1993

The Devil’s Backbone

The Devil’s Backbone is a haunting tale set against the backdrop of the Spanish Civil War. An orphanage harbors a ghostly secret, and as the story unfolds, the lines between horror and reality blur. Del Toro’s blend of historical context and supernatural elements makes this a deeply emotional and chilling film.

Year Released: 2001

Blade II

Taking on the sequel to the popular vampire hunter comic book adaptation, Blade II sees Wesley Snipes return as the titular character. This time, Blade must team up with his adversaries to take on a new mutant vampire strain. Del Toro’s touch is evident in the film’s stylized action and horror elements.

Year Released: 2002

Hellboy

In Hellboy, del Toro brings Mike Mignola’s comic book demon hero to the big screen. Raised to protect humanity from dark forces, Hellboy finds himself caught between the human and supernatural realms. The film is imbued with del Toro’s love for creatures, folklore, and the eternal battle between good and evil.

Year Released: 2004

Pan’s Labyrinth

Perhaps one of del Toro’s most acclaimed films, Pan’s Labyrinth is a dark fairy tale set in post-Civil War Spain. A young girl discovers a mysterious labyrinth, meeting various mythical creatures while grappling with the real-world horrors of fascism. The film is a powerful blend of fantasy and history, underscored by its rich visuals and poignant narrative.

Year Released: 2006

Hellboy II: The Golden Army

In this sequel, Hellboy faces an ancient army bent on reclaiming Earth for the magical creatures that once inhabited it. Del Toro’s love for monster design and mythology shines through in the film’s diverse array of creatures and intricate world-building.

Year Released: 2008

Pacific Rim

Pacific Rim is a tribute to kaiju and mecha genres, where humanity builds gigantic robots to combat massive monsters emerging from the sea. Del Toro’s trademark design sensibilities are evident in both the Jaegers (robots) and the Kaiju (monsters), making it a visual spectacle with heart.

Year Released: 2013

Crimson Peak

Crimson Peak is a gothic romance steeped in horror. Set in a crumbling mansion filled with secrets, the story revolves around love, betrayal, and ghosts of the past. With its lavish set designs and chilling atmosphere, the film is a visual treat reminiscent of classic gothic tales.

Year Released: 2015

The Shape of Water

The Shape of Water, which won del Toro the Academy Award for Best Director, is a fairy tale for adults. Set during the Cold War, it tells the story of a mute cleaner who falls in love with an amphibious creature held captive by the government. It’s a tale of love, tolerance, and the transcendence of communication beyond words.