AceShowbiz - Guillermo del Toro is set to be honored with the esteemed Dilys Powell Award for Excellence in Film at the 46th London Critics’ Circle Film Awards. The announcement was made on Friday, confirming that the acclaimed director and writer will join the ranks of notable past recipients during the ceremony scheduled for February 1.

The award, named after the influential British film critic Dilys Powell, recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the film industry. The London Critics’ Circle expressed their excitement, noting that del Toro has left “an indelible mark on global cinema” through his creative storytelling and visionary filmmaking.

In response to the recognition, del Toro shared his gratitude, stating, “Thank you to the London Film Critics’ Circle. It’s an honor to receive the Dilys Powell Award from a group I greatly admire and to join such an esteemed group of recipients. Working in this industry continues to be the joy of a lifetime.”

Since the release of his first feature film, Cronos, in 1993, Guillermo del Toro has enchanted audiences with his unique ability to create “imaginative, memorable worlds and emotionally-driven fantastical stories.” His filmography includes a plethora of critically acclaimed works such as The Devil’s Backbone, Pan’s Labyrinth, Mimic, Hellboy, Pacific Rim, Crimson Peak, and Pinocchio. Over the years, he has garnered numerous accolades, including three Academy Awards, three BAFTAs, and two Golden Globes, alongside the prestigious Golden Lion at the Venice Film Festival.

His latest film, a modern adaptation of Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, released in 2025 via Netflix, features a star-studded cast including Oscar Isaac, Jacob Elordi, and Mia Goth. Additionally, in May, the British Film Institute (BFI) will honor del Toro with a BFI Fellowship, recognizing his remarkable contributions to the craft of filmmaking.

Jane Crowther, chair of the London Film Critics’ Circle, remarked, “We’re delighted to honor such a visionary director for his exemplary world-building and invention, which has provided escape, wonderment, and comfort to our membership throughout his career.”

Previous recipients of the Dilys Powell Award include luminaries such as Michelle Yeoh, Ken Loach, Kenneth Branagh, Pedro Almodovar, and Kate Winslet. Last year's award was presented to Daniel Craig, known for his iconic role in the James Bond franchise.

The winners in all categories for the 46th annual London Critics’ Circle Film Awards will be revealed at The May Fair in London.