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Celebrating Guillermo del Toro: Master of Fantasy and Film

Celebrating Guillermo del Toro: A Master of Cinema

On this day in Guadalajara in 1964, one of Mexico’s most illustrious directors of the 21st century was born: Guillermo del Toro. Alongside fellow compatriots Alfonso Cuarón (Y tu mamá también, Children of Men, Roma) and Alejandro González Iñárritu (Babel, Birdman, The Revenant), del Toro has crafted remarkable large-scale films that have not only captivated audiences but have also left an indelible mark on Hollywood.

Starting from humble beginnings, where he would shoot short films using his father’s Super 8 camera, del Toro has evolved into a defining figure in the early 2000s comic book cinema landscape. His filmography spans a diverse range of topics, from the haunting echoes of the Spanish Civil War to his deep fascination with outsiders and the horror genre. At one point, he was even slated to direct the live-action adaptations of The Hobbit films, and his talent has been recognized with an impressive eight Academy Awards.

On his birthday, let’s take a moment to explore what I consider to be Guillermo del Toro’s five most outstanding films.

5. Hellboy II: The Golden Army (2008)

This is a personal list, so feel free to disagree with my choices. While del Toro’s first film in his ambitious but cut-short trilogy of Hellboy adaptations was gritty, witty, and unique for its time, the landscape has since been flooded with imitations that diminish its shine. However, the sequel is a different story. Del Toro fully embraces his signature style, creating a bizarre yet enchanting world filled with animatronics, puppetry, and practical effects. The result is a vibrant supernatural universe that stands out amidst the sea of superhero CGI that often dominates today’s cinema. Plus, Ron Perlman shines in his role, as always.

4. The Shape of Water (2017)

Reluctantly, I’ve included The Shape of Water in this list. Honestly, I find the film to be somewhat saccharine and lacking depth. Nevertheless, it’s impossible to overlook the numerous accolades that came its way, solidifying del Toro’s reputation as a master storyteller. The tale of a humanoid amphibian (portrayed by del Toro favorite Doug Jones) who falls in love with a mute custodian (Sally Hawkins) set against a backdrop of Cold War tensions and musical interludes certainly offers a unique premise that caught the Oscar voters’ attention. Many were deeply moved by its themes, and perhaps it deserves a second viewing from me.

3. The Devil’s Backbone (2001)

Now we delve into the heart of the list. The Devil’s Backbone marks del Toro’s poignant exploration of the Spanish Civil War. Set in 1939, at the war’s conclusion, the film follows a young boy left alone in an orphanage, haunted by the spirit of a boy who perished during the conflict. Del Toro’s greatest strength lies in his ability to translate the literary tradition of magical realism, as seen in the works of Colombian author Gabriel García Márquez, onto the screen. This film blends surrealism, horror, and the rawness of trauma, exemplifying del Toro’s genius in using imaginative storytelling to bring clarity to our own realities.

2. Pinocchio (2022)

In a year when Disney resorted to rehashing its own classic Pinocchio for a quick profit, del Toro distinguished himself by crafting a heartfelt reimagining of the beloved tale. Set against the backdrop of Fascist Italy, del Toro delves into Geppetto’s motivation for creating the puppet, rooted in the profound grief of losing a child to war. His unique contributions to the narrative present a stunningly artistic depiction of the afterlife. The result is a personal journey that transcends the traditional children’s story, addressing themes of life, death, and the impact of conflict.

1. Pan’s Labyrinth (2006)

It had to be this one. In his second exploration of the Spanish Civil War, del Toro sets Pan’s Labyrinth in the aftermath of Franco’s dictatorship. The magic of del Toro shines through as young Ofelia discovers a mystical faun who guides her into a labyrinth, promising that she is the reincarnation of a lost princess. This dark fairy tale encapsulates the height of del Toro’s artistic abilities, weaving together elements of magic, trauma, and stunning visuals. The film stands as a testament to the bleak realities of war, juxtaposed with the unsettling beauty of her enchanting alternate realm.

April 4, 2025
Celebrating 50 Years of the European Patent Convention: A Milestone in Innovation

Celebrating 50 Years of the European Patent Convention

On Thursday, Europe will commemorate a significant yet often overlooked milestone in its post-war history. Fifty years ago, on October 5, 1973, during a period marked by economic and political upheaval, 16 European nations united in their vision that technological progress should transcend national borders. They signed the European Patent Convention (EPC), a legal treaty that laid the groundwork for a unified European patent system. Today, this system comprises 39 member states and a growing number of “validation states”—countries beyond Europe where one can also secure a European patent. Together, they represent a technology market of approximately 700 million individuals, comparable to the combined populations of the United States, Brazil, Canada, Japan, and Korea.

However, the significance of this system is not merely its size; rather, it lies in the prosperity and societal advancements it has facilitated by enabling the swift introduction of innovative technologies to the market.

Life-Changing Answers to Global Crises

The industries across Europe that heavily rely on patents contribute nearly a fifth of the continent’s GDP and account for about one in every five jobs. Their products and services impact roughly a quarter of the global population. Crucially, the rights granted by European patents empower inventors from Portugal to Poland, allowing them to bring groundbreaking products to market efficiently and safely.

These innovations not only improve our daily lives but also play a vital role in addressing some of the most pressing crises facing humanity today. For instance, Katalin Karikó, the Hungarian biochemist who received the Grand Cross of the Hungarian Order of Saint Stephen in August 2023, was awarded the Lifetime Achievement accolade at the EPO’s European Inventor Award in 2022, and has now secured this year’s Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for her pivotal work in developing effective mRNA vaccines, which have been instrumental in combating the global COVID-19 pandemic.

As we navigate through various challenges—from climate change to natural disasters and famine—there remains a pressing need for innovative solutions. Alarmingly, half of the technologies required for a transition to a net-zero future remain stalled at the prototype or demonstration stage.

European Patents: A Solution to Emerging Challenges

In the spirit of reflection that accompanies such a landmark anniversary, it is essential to evaluate whether the EPC is equipped to effectively tackle these formidable challenges and deliver the patent system required for a sustainable future over the next 50 years. I believe it is. The EPC is uniquely positioned to promote sustainable development and address emerging issues, many of which are encapsulated within the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

The European patent, celebrated for its high quality, legal robustness, and extensive market reach, fosters significant investor confidence. A notable example is the record €34 billion raised last year by European start-ups focused on climate-friendly technologies. While the market exclusivity and predictability provided by a high-quality European patent are certainly appealing, the EPC’s commitment to making patent data publicly accessible is a cornerstone of the patent contract. This transparency allows inventors to learn from and enhance existing technologies, ensuring a continuous cycle of innovation.

A Treasure Trove of Knowledge

The European Patent Office, which oversees the European patent, offers a user-friendly patent search tool, Espacenet, granting public access to over 140 million patent documents. This vast repository can be likened to a treasure trove of technical blueprints, comprehensive diagrams, and detailed descriptions—akin to user manuals for cutting-edge ideas. Significant efforts are made to simplify the navigation and understanding of these documents, whether for seasoned patent attorneys or first-time inventors.

Moreover, aspiring inventors can harness advanced search platforms that focus on the latest technologies addressing critical issues, from combating coronavirus and wildfires to advancing clean energy solutions. The integration of artificial intelligence in translating patent documents across multiple languages, including Mandarin, further increases accessibility. Insight reports on topics like the hydrogen economy illustrate the latest technological trends, empowering governments and private sector leaders to make informed strategic decisions. However, these studies also reveal concerning trends, such as the finding that fewer than 1 in 7 inventors in Europe are women.

Lessons Learned for a Brighter Future

Ultimately, we arrive at a crucial question: how do we enhance accessibility? While empowering researchers, scientists, and independent inventors with patent intelligence is vital, it is equally important to eliminate barriers that deter underrepresented entities—such as SMEs, micro-enterprises, and research centers—from entering the patent system. These groups frequently pioneer market-disrupting solutions but currently account for only one-fifth of patent applications, despite representing over half of European patent applicants.

The recent introduction of the European patent with unitary effect aims to address many challenges related to sustainability and accessibility. Now, innovators can secure a single patent, pay a single renewal fee, and navigate a unified legal system before a single Unified Patent Court across 17 participating countries—potentially extending to 27 nations and others joining the EU family. This innovation offers maximum protection with minimal administrative burden, which is why we are already observing positive signs of adoption from smaller business entities.

Fundamentally, the success of the Unitary Patent is rooted in the vision of the EPC, which not only anticipated its existence but also established the patent grant process that underpins this new system. Given these advantages, I am confident that the European Patent Convention can deliver the sustainable future we aspire to achieve. The qualities that defined our mission five decades ago will continue to ensure the success of Europe’s patent system and our ability to confront society’s most daunting challenges.

António Campinos serves as President of the European Patent Office (EPO).
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April 4, 2025
Celebrating the Legacy of ‘The Hobbit’ on Its Anniversary

Celebrating the Legacy of ‘The Hobbit’

“Do you recall the 21st night of September?” This iconic question posed by Maurice White, the singer-songwriter of Earth, Wind & Fire, in their 1978 hit ‘September’, resonates with many. Interestingly, it could easily apply to the literary genius of John Ronald Reuel “JRR” Tolkien. Renowned for his masterful storytelling and linguistic expertise, Tolkien is best remembered for his epic ‘The Lord of the Rings’ trilogy, published between 1954 and 1955. However, preceding this monumental work was a charming children’s tale that set the stage for his grand fantasy epic.

Released on this day in 1937, ‘The Hobbit’ introduces readers to Bilbo Baggins, the titular “Hobbit” characterized by his diminutive stature, enormous feet, and a preference for the comforts of home. Bilbo’s peaceful existence is abruptly disrupted when he embarks on an extraordinary adventure through the enchanting realm of Middle-earth. Guided by the wise wizard Gandalf and accompanied by a band of thirteen dwarves, Bilbo’s quest leads him to confront the fearsome dragon Smaug in a bid to reclaim the dwarves’ lost treasure.

The immediate success of ‘The Hobbit’ prompted Tolkien’s publisher, Stanley Unwin, to request a sequel, which would ultimately evolve into Tolkien’s magnum opus. Over the years, ‘The Lord of the Rings’ has transformed names like “Hobbits”, “Gandalf”, and “Bilbo Baggins” into household terms. This phenomenon reached new heights with Peter Jackson’s acclaimed film adaptations, released from 2001 to 2003, which won numerous Academy Awards.

While Jackson later ventured into creating a trilogy based on ‘The Hobbit’, the financial success of these films did not translate into the same level of critical acclaim as his earlier adaptations. This trend highlights how Tolkien’s original trilogy frequently overshadows its predecessor. In fact, Tolkien himself revisited and revised portions of ‘The Hobbit’ to align with the evolving narrative of his subsequent works during its second publication.

On this occasion, let us delve into what makes ‘The Hobbit’ uniquely compelling. Rather than dismissing this beloved book—having sold an estimated 100 million copies—as merely a simplistic precursor to the epic saga that followed, we should recognize it as a groundbreaking piece of children’s literature that laid the foundation for one of the richest fantasy worlds ever conceived.

Bilbo and Gandalf in ‘The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey’

What distinguishes ‘The Hobbit’ is its dynamic engagement with children’s literature, allowing Tolkien to navigate the whimsical landscapes of Middle-earth while gradually introducing darker themes in his later works. When ‘The Hobbit’ was published, children’s literature was at a crossroads. The Golden Age, marked by classics like ‘Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland’, ‘The Jungle Book’, and ‘Peter Pan’, had come to an abrupt halt following the devastation of World War I. The aftermath left a generation of men deeply scarred, resulting in a shift in literary production and philosophical approaches.

In contrast, children’s tales like the post-war ‘Winnie-the-Pooh’ and ‘Mary Poppins’ reflected worlds devoid of conventional parenting dynamics. ‘The Hobbit’, released in this interwar climate, broke the mold. It was infused with humor, enchanting songs, and, most crucially, action. Although Bilbo begins his journey as a quintessential Hobbit, preferring the quiet life of the Shire, he is soon swept into a whirlwind of adventure filled with swords, trolls, and dragons.

Tolkien insisted that ‘The Lord of the Rings’ “is neither allegorical nor topical.” However, the depictions of war and a declining magical world closely mirror Tolkien’s own experiences as a soldier in World War I and his observations of World War II. In contrast, ‘The Hobbit’ is more straightforward in its moral framework, promoting themes of kindness over greed without ever becoming clichéd.

Every moment in ‘The Hobbit’ feels earned, every joke resonates, and each step of Bilbo’s journey is more thrilling than the last. It’s no wonder that ‘The Hobbit’ has endured through the ages; it stands as the sine qua non of children’s fantasy literature.

April 4, 2025
The Rise of Pibot: A Revolutionary Humanoid Robot for Aviation

As artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics continue to evolve at an astonishing pace, the possibility of technology surpassing human capabilities in various professions looms ever closer. A remarkable leap in this direction is being made by a dedicated team of engineers and researchers at the Korea Advanced Institute of Science & Technology (KAIST), who are developing an innovative humanoid robot capable of piloting aircraft without requiring any modifications to the cockpit.

Named Pibot, this humanoid robot is designed to operate an airplane just like a human pilot would, manipulating all the necessary controls within the cockpit, which is inherently designed for human use. David Shim, an associate professor of electrical engineering at KAIST, shared insights with Euronews Next, stating, “Pibot is a humanoid robot that can fly an aeroplane just like a human pilot by manipulating all the single controls in the cockpit, which is designed for humans.”

Pibot is equipped with advanced capabilities, enabling it to control its arms and fingers with remarkable dexterity to interact with flight instruments, even amidst significant vibrations that occur during flight. High-precision control technology is at the heart of its functionality, ensuring safe and accurate operation.

Utilizing external cameras, Pibot can effectively monitor the aircraft’s current state, while internal cameras assist in managing critical switches on the control panel. One of Pibot’s most impressive features is its ability to memorize complex manuals presented in natural language, greatly enhancing its adaptability across various types of aircraft.

With an extensive memory capacity, Pibot can retain all Jeppesen aeronautical navigation charts from around the globe, a feat that far exceeds human capabilities, according to the KAIST team. Shim elaborated, “Humans can fly many aeroplanes, but they have habits built into them. When transitioning between different aircraft, they often require additional qualifications. These habits can complicate the learning process.” He further explained, “With the pilot robot, if we teach it the configuration for individual aeroplanes, then it can fly by simply selecting the type of aircraft.”

Advancements Enabled by Large Language Models

The research team highlights that Pibot’s ability to “understand” and memorize manuals originally intended for human pilots has been significantly enhanced by recent advancements in large language models (LLM). Shim reflected on the evolution of their project, stating, “Our predecessor to the pilot robot was developed in 2016. At that time, we lacked robust AI technology, so our creation was quite basic and couldn’t learn from literature or manuals. However, with the advent of systems like ChatGPT and other large language models, we have witnessed groundbreaking progress.”

Thanks to these advanced LLMs, Pibot is anticipated to operate flights with greater accuracy than human pilots, responding to emergencies with remarkable speed. It can memorize aircraft operation manuals and emergency protocols (such as the Quick Reference Handbook, or QRH) and execute responses instantaneously. Furthermore, Pibot can calculate optimal flight routes in real-time based on the aircraft’s current status.

While the research team utilizes ChatGPT, they are also in the process of developing a bespoke natural language model that will allow Pibot to make inquiries without relying on an Internet connection. This specialized language model will focus exclusively on piloting information and will be stored on a compact computer designed for onboard use.

Versatile Capabilities Beyond Aviation

Pibot’s design enables it to be directly integrated into aircraft systems, facilitating seamless communication. It is primarily intended for deployment in extreme situations where human intervention may not be optimal. Pibot can communicate with air traffic controllers and other individuals in the cockpit using advanced voice synthesis, allowing it to function effectively as either a pilot or co-pilot.

Moreover, Pibot’s humanoid structure makes it suitable for various roles beyond aviation. Standing at 160 cm and weighing 65 kg, its design allows it to potentially replace humans in tasks such as driving vehicles, operating military tanks, or commanding naval vessels. Shim emphasized that this robot can be employed in any scenario where a human is currently “sitting and working.”

He elaborated, “Although the human form may not be the most efficient, we deliberately designed Pibot to resemble humans because existing systems are built for human interaction. While we could have created a robot with eight arms and four eyes, we found that the human form is, in many ways, optimal for our purposes.”

Currently, Pibot is still under development, with plans for completion by 2026. This innovative research project has been commissioned by the Agency for Defense Development (ADD), the South Korean government body responsible for advancing defense technology. Looking to the future, Shim envisions potential military applications for Pibot.

To learn more about this groundbreaking technology, be sure to watch the video in the media player above.

April 4, 2025
Navigating the AI Arms Race: Understanding Perspectives and Potential
The AI Arms Race: A Dual Perspective

The ongoing AI arms race is fostering a typical political polarization, with different factions perceiving the technology through vastly different lenses. As several experts have noted, individuals tend to fall into two camps: the AI doomers and the AI utopists. Regardless of the side you align with, it’s crucial to acknowledge that both perspectives miss significant aspects of the reality of AI. While AI is unlikely to obliterate our society, it is essential to cultivate an unbiased understanding of its capabilities and limitations to safeguard ourselves and fully harness its potential.

Could a Sea Slug Really End Humanity?

In 2023, many individuals harbor fears that AI will usurp their jobs or pose an existential threat to humanity. This anxiety is largely fueled by sensationalized AI articles that propagate unrealistic narratives. Such articles exploit our innate fears of the unknown, distorting the actual capabilities of AI technologies. While generative AI has unveiled a plethora of possibilities, our inventions remain far from flawless—a reality that anyone who has engaged with these tools quickly grasps.

Those who view AI optimistically believe it will resolve every challenge our world faces, whereas doomers fear that AI will turn against humanity or intentionally seek to do harm. This divergence arises from a common misconception: both groups assume that AI is more advanced than it truly is. In reality, AI is still “closer to a sea slug than to an all-knowing machine.” Current algorithms are highly specialized, requiring substantial time and effort to develop. They lack the capability to apply random information across diverse tasks and necessitate extensive training and rigorous testing—a fact that many remain unaware of.

This Isn’t the First Major Tech Advance Humanity Has Had to Navigate

The proliferation of nuclear weapons, for instance, has not led to the extinction of human life as many once feared. Although it had the potential to do so, people took proactive measures to safeguard against destruction. They educated themselves on the implications of nuclear technology and collaborated to ensure humanity’s protection. A similar approach is necessary for AI. If there are concerns about the role of AI in our evolution, both decision-makers and the general public should express those concerns openly.

The dialogue surrounding AI has already commenced, with international policymakers rapidly crafting ethical regulations aimed at deterring potential misuse. Both doomers and utopists advocate for robust regulations and impartial education on how AI can benefit our civilization. The European Commissioner for Europe Fit for the Digital Age, Margrethe Vestager, has emphasized the need for a balanced approach to AI regulation.
- AI offers boundless opportunities for enhancing the quality of life and efficiency across societies at various developmental stages.
- Some reports suggest that children could learn to read within just 18 months, and job seekers might find lucrative AI roles offering six-figure salaries.
With such extraordinary potential at our fingertips, it is worth considering whether the complaints about AI’s downsides are overblown. It is clear that our world must progress beyond the technological advancements of the early 2000s and discover improved methods of working and living. The journey toward integrating AI is not overly complex; it requires a balanced approach to address present challenges while preparing for innovative applications through proactive legislation designed to protect our future.

Fearmongering as a Result of Biased Reporting

A significant portion of this polarization stems from certain journalists—particularly in the United States—who do not adhere to the principle of providing equal representation for both sides of a story, especially on a contentious topic like AI. Biased news outlets exacerbate this situation as AI is either demonized or idolized, depending on the publication’s political leanings. According to a Pew Research study, 55% of journalists in the U.S. believe that “every side does not always deserve equal coverage,” while 76% of the public expects the opposite.

Despite this disconnect, industry leaders are diligently working to educate the public on how to progress with AI rather than against it. As Meta’s Global Affairs President, Nick Clegg, stated, transparency and openness toward AI are crucial for its advancement. AI systems should be transparent, collaborative, and thoroughly vetted for flaws before they are released. These guiding principles would contribute to a safer, more informed society. Unfortunately, mere transparency may not be sufficient to shift public perception toward a more favorable view of AI.

Resistance to Progress is Futile

AI is a tangible reality, but it is not yet the science-fiction equivalent of intelligence. It requires significant time and development to pose a genuine threat. Therefore, it is imperative for people to stop consuming biased information that detracts from the core priorities that AI developers must address. While the potential for a dystopian future exists, it will only come to fruition if society continues to obsess over hypothetical scenarios involving rogue chatbots. Our fears are often exaggerated, and we must regain a sense of reality.

Instead of fixating on the future, we should concentrate on the present and devise strategies that minimize the risks associated with AI. As OpenAI’s CEO, Sam Altman, articulated, technological progress occurs as new possibilities emerge. Humanity’s evolution necessitates new inventions. Altman drew a parallel between OpenAI’s mission and the Manhattan Project, highlighting the importance of ongoing development while mitigating risks associated with potentially dangerous technologies.

Ultimately, resisting the natural trajectory of our civilization’s evolution is futile. Such resistance would confine society to outdated systems and perspectives that no longer serve us. The public must choose truth over fantasy to protect humanity and to end the misinformation war surrounding AI. The advantages that AI will bring have the potential to transform economies, businesses, and the personal lives of individuals worldwide.

Fabrizio Fantini is the CEO and founder of EvoPricing, a platform that leverages AI technology to automate pricing and supply chain techniques.
At Euronews, we believe all views matter. Contact us at view@euronews.com to send pitches or submissions and be part of the conversation.
April 4, 2025
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April 4, 2025