Beyond Fest 2025 To Have 12-Film Guillermo del Toro Retrospective

This year, we’re eagerly anticipating Guillermo del Toro‘s adaptation of Frankenstein as much as any horror film. To build excitement for the realization of the director’s long-held dream (no unintended pun), Beyond Fest, the largest genre film festival in the U.S., is presenting “Está Vivo: The Gods and Monsters of Guillermo del Toro.” This event will showcase a 12-film retrospective of del Toro’s remarkable body of work, spanning over three decades. Notably, it includes new restorations, special director’s cuts, and rare 35mm screenings. As a bonus, Guillermo del Toro himself will be attending this event. For those who may not speak Spanish, “Está Vivo” means “It’s alive.

The series titled “Está Vivo” showcases 12 distinct segments, providing viewers with an extraordinary odyssey exploring the poetic, political, and mystical realms of contemporary filmmaking’s most imaginative mastermind, Guillermo del Toro. Over four uniquely designed programming blocks, del Toro will offer intimate glimpses into his life experiences, creative inspirations, and both inspiring dreams and haunting nightmares. As a prelude to his upcoming movie “Frankenstein“, due for release later this year, the series follows recurring motifs of monstrosity, humanity, and creative vision that have characterized del Toro’s filmography thus far.

In the Mood for Love

Crimson Peak, Nightmare Alley: Vision in Darkness and Light, The Shape of Water

The festivities commence with “In The Mood For Love.” This triple feature delves into the heartfelt balance between elegance and violence that Guillermo del Toro is known for. Included are the iconic gothic horror, “Crimson Peak,” the Best Picture winner, “The Shape of Water,” and a newly crafted version of his 2022 odyssey, “Nightmare Alley: Vision in Darkness and Light.” This triple feature will screen at the Egyptian Theater in Hollywood. Del Toro will be present for a post-screening Q&A following the screening of “The Shape of Water.

From Sketch to Screen

Hellboy, Hellboy II: The Golden Army, Blade II

The series “Sketch to Screen” takes us on an exciting journey through Guillermo del Toro’s intense affection for comic books. It highlights three groundbreaking adaptations from the comics realm that were brought to life on screen: “Hellboy, Hellboy II: The Golden Army“, and “Blade II“. These adventures into comic book universes provide unique perspectives into del Toro’s distinct way of narrating superhero tales. Additionally, a pre-screening discussion featuring the creators is scheduled for “Hellboy” at the Egyptian Theater.

The Early Years

Cronos, The Devil’s Backbone, Mimic: Director’s Cut

Celebrate Del Toro’s early works in the event titled “The Early Years“! It includes the theatrical debut of his 4K restored masterpiece, “Cronos“, along with the L.A. premiere of the 4K restoration of “The Devil’s Backbone“, and a studio feature, “Mimic: Director’s Cut” in its original form. These foundational films highlight the roots of his extraordinary storytelling, gothic fantasy passion, practical effects genius, and the human connections that define his remarkable career. This incredible triple-feature will be screened at the Egyptian Theater in Hollywood. Following the screening of “Mimic“, there will be a special Q&A session with del Toro himself!

The Revolution

Pan’s Labyrinth

The event concludes with a unique evening dedicated to the globally recognized masterpiece, “Pan’s Labyrinth.” This experience was unlike any before or since, distinguished by its profound symbolism, meticulous production design, and deeply impactful storytelling. These elements solidified Guillermo del Toro’s reputation as a visionary filmmaker and one of the most significant figures in modern Cinema. During this screening at the Egyptian Theater, there will be a pre-screening Q&A session with del Toro himself.

Apart from Los Feliz 3 theater, there’s an upcoming screening of Guillermo del Toro’s films – “Pacific Rim” and his latest stop-motion masterpiece “Pinocchio”. Tickets can be purchased on the American Cinematheque website starting Thursday, September 4th at 12:00 pm PST. For more information, check out beyondfest.com and americancinematheque.com.

2025-09-03 18:05