Guillermo del Toro supports Guadalajara water crisis protesters

During the Morelia International Film Festival, filmmaker Guillermo del Toro used his masterclass to support protesters from Guadalajara, Jalisco, who are facing a severe water crisis. Students from the Universidad Panamericana shared testimonies regarding the consumption of contaminated water, describing it as “black water” that causes illness and prevents basic hygiene. Del Toro described the situation as “unsustainable, indecipherable, and terrifying,” arguing that access to clean water is a fundamental right.

The protests in Guadalajara have previously faced police intervention, with reports of tear gas and water cannons being used to disperse crowds, resulting in multiple detentions. Some demonstrators have also called for the removal of Jalisco Governor Pablo Lemus.

In addition to the water crisis, Del Toro reflected on the social and moral state of the world, expressing grief that previous generations have failed the current youth. He also received the UNAM Film Library Medal and advocated for human-led art over artificial intelligence.