There are filmmakers that seem to be perfect fits for modern superhero films, due to their obvious love of the genre and respect for the medium. And in the case of Guillermo del Toro, the filmmaker has already dipped his toes in superhero films…kind of. Yes, he directed “Blade II,” two “Hellboy” films, and was attached to “Justice League Dark.” But let’s be real, those are superhero films, in name only. And if you’re hoping that he’s going to sign up for a new “Captain America” or “Superman” film anytime soon, you’re in for a rude awakening.
According to a new interview with Comicbook.com, del Toro discussed what attracts him to films like “Blade II” and “Justice League Dark,” and why those films are really the only types of superhero films he’s interested in. Specifically, he’s asked whether or not he’d be willing to take a dip into the superhero genre anytime soon.
“Well, I co-wrote a whole screenplay on ‘Justice League Dark’ for Warner Bros., so that’s your answer,” del Toro said. “I love Deadman, I love Demon, I love Swamp Thing…Zatanna. That’s a universe, is one thing. I’m very attracted to that side of the DC Universe.”
He continued, “But I’m not a superhero guy. For me to like a superhero, the superhero needs to be a monster. I’m not into those things, I’ve never been. I’m always in favor of monster narratives. That’s what I like. Or, I love noir. I love police, crime dramas. I love science fiction.”
Of course, this is far from a declarative statement that he’ll never work on a superhero film in the future but definitely points to the likelihood that it’s not in the cards. That being said, there are plenty of superheroes in Marvel and DC, as well as the independent publishers that fall into the “monster” category. Over at Marvel, there’s Man-Thing, Werewolf by Night, Frankenstein’s Monster, and even Dracula. DC has its fair share, including the cast of the aforementioned “Justice League Dark.”
Del Toro’s next feature is “Nightmare Alley,” which is set to go into production soon.