Ghost and ghouls, vampires, death… stories that leave goosebumps and haunt you at bedtime – these are just a few things I look for in a good read. So, you shouldn’t be surprised that I am just as interested in the gothic genre in film especially since they capture the visual representation of these very dark images. Some of my all-time favourite films are directed by the great Tim Burton himself such as Edward Scissorhands (1990) and Corpse Bride (2005). Imagine my excitement in seeing a big head of Frankenstein (not too long after reading Mary Shelley’s book I might add), only the mascot of all that is creepy, on the advertisement of an AGO exhibit. Of course, I would not pass on this opportunity to be able to see this collection in person. Let me tell you, it lived up to all my expectations and beyond.
Before attending the Guillermo Del Toro: At Home with Monsters exhibit, I didn’t know much about this director (who is also a screenwriter, producer and novelist). However, I was familiar with some of his major works such as Pan’s Labyrinth (2006) and Hellboy (2004), but never associate their stories in any way. After this experience, I have learned so much about Del Toro as an artist, which sparked an interest in further research that has made me appreciate his work both previously aware of and ones newly discovered.
As an English Literatures student, I am exposed to authors who are well-versed and famous for their work of gothic fiction such as Charles Dickens and Edgar Allen Poe. These renowned writers continue to influence Del Toro’s creative process, as seen through its recognition and praise in the exhibit. The collection shown in the AGO mostly come from his personal collecting that is displayed in his creative space which he has dubbed the Bleak House, based on the novel by Charles Dickens. Being familiar with some of Dickens work, I found this reference quite intriguing and relatable.
Throughout the exhibit, the walls are very distinct in its crimson red and the spooky sound of piano playing echoes. This is almost overwhelming in combination with the artifacts that cover the walls and especially the life size replicas of characters seen in his films that tower over as you move from one section to the other. At the entrance, there is a figure of the Pale Man from Pan’s Labyrinth (2006) like a warning to stay away, especially for children since he is notorious for having an appetite for them. Despite this, my younger siblings enjoyed the collection. That being said, the exhibit is appropriate as a family excursion even if the content is somewhat terrifying.
Most of all, I enjoyed seeing his creative process in notebooks of sketches and journal entries, and in rough copies of framed story boards that were still incredibly detailed. Seeing his initial work exploring in different mediums and following through on ideas inspired by his childhood experiences come to life as a final product of appraised films has inspired me as a writer. I think his collection, in exposing some things that could be considered ugly or criticized for its darkness, is fearless. I am especially drawn to his Rain Room in which effects surround the space as if it was continuously raining no matter the weather outdoors. It was explained that in the original Bleak House, the Rain Room is his preferred place to work. Although in my opinion this would be the perfect room to sleep, for Del Toro, I assume the sound of rain could possibly tap into a subconscious allowing for a freedom of creativity, something like a white noise that allows for the ability to concentrate.
Overall, Guillermo Del Toro: At Home with Monsters was worth every penny of the admission. I’d suggest visiting if you’re familiar with his movies and even if you’re not, you might just find a new interest. It is also great for post-Halloween celebration to keep the spooky vibes going. Great news is that the collection is available for viewing until January 7th. You might even see me there again!