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''Toronto is the best place to make movies'': Guillermo del Toro presented with key to the city

Toronto: The Ultimate Cinematic Haven, as Declared by Guillermo del Toro Upon Receiving Key to the City

In a heartfelt ceremony that blended Hollywood glamour with local pride, acclaimed filmmaker Guillermo del Toro was honored with the key to the City of Toronto, an accolade that underscores the deep bond between the Oscar-winning director and Canada's largest metropolis. The event, held amid the bustling energy of the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), served as a testament to del Toro's longstanding affection for the city, which he boldly proclaimed as "the best place to make movies in the world." This declaration, delivered with his characteristic passion and eloquence, resonated with attendees, highlighting Toronto's evolving role as a global hub for filmmaking.

The presentation took place at a special gathering organized by city officials, where del Toro, known for his masterful blend of fantasy, horror, and emotional depth in films like *Pan's Labyrinth*, *The Shape of Water*, and *Pacific Rim*, accepted the symbolic key from Toronto Mayor John Tory. Dressed in his signature style—casual yet sophisticated—del Toro stepped up to the podium, his eyes lighting up as he addressed the crowd. "Toronto is not just a city; it's a canvas where dreams come to life," he said, his voice carrying the weight of years spent immersed in its streets, studios, and creative communities. He elaborated on how the city's diverse neighborhoods, skilled crews, and welcoming atmosphere have fueled his creative process, making it an unparalleled destination for storytellers.

Del Toro's connection to Toronto runs deep, dating back over a decade. He first discovered the city's potential while shooting *Mimic* in the late 1990s, but it was with *Pacific Rim* in 2013 that Toronto truly became his adopted home base. The massive production, featuring giant robots battling kaiju monsters, utilized the city's expansive soundstages at Pinewood Toronto Studios, transforming industrial spaces into otherworldly battlegrounds. Del Toro recalled the efficiency and talent of local crews, praising their ability to handle complex visual effects and practical sets with precision. "The people here don't just work on films; they live them," he noted, emphasizing the collaborative spirit that sets Toronto apart from other film centers like Los Angeles or London.

This sentiment was echoed in his acceptance speech, where he delved into specific reasons why Toronto reigns supreme in the movie-making world. For one, the city's multicultural fabric provides a rich tapestry of influences that inspire diverse narratives. Del Toro, a Mexican-born director whose works often explore themes of otherness and humanity, found in Toronto a microcosm of the world—a place where immigrants, artists, and innovators converge. He shared anecdotes of wandering through Kensington Market or along the waterfront, drawing inspiration from the eclectic mix of cultures that mirror the fantastical worlds he creates on screen. "In Toronto, you can film a gothic fairy tale one day and a sci-fi epic the next, all within the same vibrant ecosystem," he explained.

Moreover, del Toro highlighted the practical advantages that make Toronto a filmmaker's paradise. The city's robust infrastructure, including state-of-the-art facilities like Cinespace Film Studios and Revival 629, offers cost-effective alternatives to pricier locales. He pointed out the generous tax incentives provided by the Ontario government, which have attracted major productions and bolstered the local economy. According to del Toro, these incentives aren't just financial perks; they foster a sustainable industry that supports thousands of jobs, from grips and gaffers to visual effects artists. "Toronto invests in creativity, and that investment pays off in stories that touch the world," he said, referencing how *The Shape of Water*, filmed largely in the city, went on to win four Academy Awards, including Best Picture in 2018.

The ceremony itself was a star-studded affair, attended by film industry luminaries, local politicians, and fans who braved the autumn chill to catch a glimpse of the director. Mayor Tory, in his remarks, lauded del Toro not only for his artistic contributions but also for his role in elevating Toronto's profile on the global stage. "Guillermo has chosen Toronto time and again, and in doing so, he's helped put our city on the map as a premier destination for filmmaking," Tory stated. He recounted how del Toro's presence has drawn other high-profile projects to the area, creating a ripple effect that benefits the entire community. The key presentation was more than ceremonial; it symbolized Toronto's commitment to nurturing talent and innovation in the arts.

Del Toro's praise extended beyond logistics to the intangible qualities that make Toronto special. He spoke warmly of the city's "quiet magic," a subtle undercurrent of inspiration that permeates its everyday life. During the production of *Crimson Peak*, a gothic romance set in a haunted mansion, del Toro utilized Toronto's historic architecture, such as the Casa Loma, to bring his vision to life. He described late-night shoots where the fog rolling off Lake Ontario added an ethereal quality to scenes, enhancing the film's atmospheric tension. "There's a poetry here that you can't manufacture," he mused, contrasting it with the more frenetic pace of other film hubs.

In a broader context, del Toro's endorsement comes at a pivotal time for Toronto's film industry. The city has seen a surge in productions post-pandemic, with streaming giants like Netflix and Amazon establishing footholds. Del Toro urged continued support for local talent, advocating for education and training programs to ensure the next generation of filmmakers thrives. He shared a personal story of mentoring young artists in Toronto, emphasizing how the city's inclusive environment allows for experimentation and growth. "I've made some of my best work here because Toronto lets you dream big without the noise of ego," he said.

The event also touched on del Toro's upcoming projects, hinting at potential future collaborations with Toronto. While details were sparse, he teased that his affinity for the city might lead to more films shot locally, further cementing its status. Fans in attendance erupted in applause as he concluded his speech, holding the oversized key aloft like a trophy from one of his fantastical tales.

This honor for del Toro is part of a tradition of recognizing cultural ambassadors who have left an indelible mark on Toronto. Past recipients include musicians, athletes, and activists, but del Toro's addition feels particularly fitting in a city that prides itself on its creative output. As the ceremony wrapped up, with photo ops and well-wishes, it was clear that del Toro's words had struck a chord. Toronto, often overshadowed by its flashier counterparts, was being celebrated for what it truly is: a nurturing ground for cinematic excellence.

In reflecting on the day, del Toro's message was clear and resounding. Toronto isn't just a location; it's a partner in the art of storytelling. Its blend of practicality, diversity, and inspiration makes it, in his eyes, the unrivaled best place to make movies. For aspiring filmmakers and industry veterans alike, his endorsement serves as both validation and invitation—to come, create, and contribute to the magic that defines this dynamic city. As del Toro himself put it, "Toronto opens doors to worlds unknown, and for that, it will always have a key to my heart."

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Read the Full Toronto Star Article at:
[ https://www.thestar.com/news/gta/toronto-is-the-best-place-to-make-movies-guillermo-del-toro-presented-with-key-to/article_6b122514-9d29-48ce-9bca-8fc883902d86.html ]