Acclaimed Mexican filmmaker Guillermo del Toro is to be presented with the British Film Institute's most prestigious accolade, the BFI Fellowship, in May 2026.
A Career Celebrated
The honour recognises what the BFI described as del Toro's "extraordinary contribution to film", spanning both live-action and animated cinema. The director, who won Oscars for The Shape of Water and Pinocchio, will join an elite group of past fellows that includes cinematic luminaries like Martin Scorsese and Christopher Nolan.
The award will be marked by a major public retrospective of his career at BFI Southbank in London. The celebration will extend beyond a simple screening series, as del Toro will personally curate a dedicated film season and host masterclasses aimed at inspiring the next generation of filmmakers.
"The Honour of a Lifetime"
Expressing his deep gratitude, del Toro stated that receiving the fellowship was "the honour of a lifetime". He specifically acknowledged the profound influence British cinema has had on his own creative journey and body of work.
Legacy and Impact
This comprehensive tribute underscores del Toro's unique position in global cinema. His films, often blending dark fantasy with profound human emotion, have garnered both critical acclaim and popular success. The BFI's decision to honour him with its highest award highlights his significant impact on the art form and his role as a bridge between different cinematic traditions and cultures.
The planned events for May 2026 promise to offer UK audiences and industry professionals an unparalleled deep dive into the mind and movies of one of modern filmmaking's most distinctive voices.
