Guillermo del Toro and his film Frankenstein were among the most nominated at the 2016 Critics Choice Awards. Despite the Mexican director dedicating months to promoting the film, and despite these awards being important for Oscar nominations, his chair remained empty. His absence was due to a painful family matter.
Over the weekend, during the Palm Springs Film Awards ceremony, where he was honored for his work on Frankenstein with the Visionary Award, the filmmaker said the moment was "bittersweet" after the recent death of his older brother, Federico del Toro.
"I lost my older brother three days ago, but I'm here," he said. "I might not be at some functions, but not this one. I'm here because this is family. Life gives you family along the way."
During his speech, Del Toro said: "My brother and I played Victor and the creature at many points in our lives, and many years ago we gave each other love and peace. So I'm here for the family."
Birthday memory: My brother Federico (right) and I- in a happy, sunny afternoon in my Grandmother's house. pic.twitter.com/djdBMy3peW
— Guillermo del Toro (@RealGDT) October 9, 2015
The Del Toro family's grief is palpable. Del Toro, an avid commentator on social media, was completely absent on Sunday night, even though Frankenstein received 11 nominations and won Critics' Choice Awards for Best Supporting Actor (Jacob Elordi), Best Production Design, Best Costume Design, and Best Makeup.
Although these awards are less well-known, they represent clear pathways to the Oscars. It's possible that Memo, as his friends call him, chose to take this week off and resume the promotional campaign for Frankenstein next Sunday when the Golden Globes are awarded, where it's nominated in five categories.
Voting for the Oscars ends on January 16th, and the nominations will be announced on the 22nd. However, family is the most important thing. Our condolences to the family and friends of Federico del Toro.
