Del Toro and Yeon Sang-ho Unite at Busan Festival to Share Secrets of Monster-Making Magic

Guillermo del Toro and Yeon Sang-ho Connect Over Monsters, Animation, and Creative Process at Busan In a rare convergence of creative minds, acclaimed directors Guillermo del Toro and Yeon Sang-ho came together at the Busan International Film Festival to share insights into their imaginative processes. The two masters of blending fantasy with deeply human stories participated in an intimate conversation at Netflix's Creative Asia conference on September 20. During the session, del Toro and Yeon Sang-ho revealed surprising connections between their work, despite being separated by continents and cultures. "I think what we're both trying to do is create a sense of wonder," said del Toro, known for his visually stunning films such as "Pan's Labyrinth" and "Hellboy." "We want our audiences to feel like they're experiencing something new and magical." Yeon Sang-ho, the creator of the hit Netflix series "D.P.," echoed del Toro's sentiments, noting that their shared passion for animation and monsters is not just about spectacle but also about exploring the human condition. "For me, animation is a way to express emotions and ideas in a more abstract way," Yeon Sang-ho explained. The conversation offered a glimpse into the creative processes of two directors who have made significant contributions to global cinema. Del Toro's films often blend Mexican folklore with dark fantasy, while Yeon Sang-ho's work frequently explores themes of social justice and Korean culture. Background context is essential in understanding the significance of this meeting of minds. The Busan International Film Festival has become a premier platform for showcasing Asian cinema and fostering international collaborations. Netflix's Creative Asia conference aims to promote cross-cultural exchange and innovation in storytelling. Industry experts note that del Toro and Yeon Sang-ho's conversation highlights the growing importance of global perspectives in filmmaking. "This meeting is a testament to the power of film as a universal language," said Kim Jee-woon, a Korean director known for his work on "The Handmaiden" and "I Saw the Devil." "It shows that even though we come from different cultures and backgrounds, our shared passion for storytelling can bring us together." As the Busan International Film Festival continues to showcase innovative films from around the world, del Toro and Yeon Sang-ho's conversation serves as a reminder of the boundless possibilities in global cinema. Their meeting is sure to inspire new collaborations and creative endeavors that will continue to captivate audiences worldwide. By Naman Ramachandran This article was written by Naman Ramachandran, a journalist covering international film festivals and industry events. *Reporting by Variety.*