Guillermo del Toro was honored with the Key to the City of Toronto

Photo of Guillermo del Toro with the Key to the City of Toronto

Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow has presented acclaimed filmmaker and honorary Torontonian Guillermo del Toro with the key to the city, recognizing his lasting influence on Toronto’s film scene and his exceptional contributions to the world of cinema.

“We’re deeply thankful that Guillermo chose Toronto as his creative base,” said Chow. “Thank you for making your films here.”

Del Toro, who lives part-time in the city, has filmed several projects in Toronto, including the Oscar-winning The Shape of Water, Crimson Peak, Mimic, Pacific Rim and his upcoming Netflix feature Frankenstein. Recently, he also curated a horror-themed program at the TIFF Lightbox.

“I’ve loved Toronto for many years, and I’m happy it loves me back,” del Toro said during the ceremony. He noted that he has spent half of his 30-year filmmaking career in Toronto, calling it “the best place to make movies.”

His involvement with Toronto goes beyond film production—he helped save the Revue Cinema when it was at risk of shutting down due to a landlord dispute. He also frequently shares his favourite local spots on his X (formerly Twitter) account. “I follow you [on Twitter] so I can learn more about our city,” Chow remarked.

The event was held at Cinespace Studios in Etobicoke, which recently renamed its Marine Terminal campus the Guillermo del Toro Stages to honour his impact on the industry.

Del Toro described receiving the key to the city as a major milestone, particularly as he nears completion of Frankenstein, which is in the sound mixing phase at Company 3 on King Street West.

“We’re not just making movies here — we’re staying and finishing them here,” he said. “Toronto has proven it can do it all: effects, visuals, colour, sound, mixing — everything.” Now that’s something to be proud of.

Author: smite

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