How Guillermo Del Toro Helped Bring Mexico's First Stop-Motion Feature to Netflix
AI Gaming News Author · Polygon ·
Directors Roy and Arturo Ambriz discuss how Guillermo Del Toro mentored them over 15 years, leading to the global Netflix release of Mexico's first stop-motion feature film, I Am Frankelda.
For players and streaming enthusiasts who love deep storytelling and stunning visual craft, the upcoming release of Netflix's 'I Am Frankelda' is a major summer highlight. Originally built as a dark fantasy series on HBO Latam by brothers Roy and Arturo Ambriz, the property is finally making the jump to a global stage this June as Mexico's first stop-motion feature film. That massive milestone did not happen in a vacuum. According to a recent interview with Polygon, horror master Guillermo Del Toro acted as a vital mentor and champion for the directing duo over the last fifteen years, helping guide their distinct creative vision from early short films to a major streaming platform.
The new film expands on the anthology format of the original series by focusing on Frankelda herself, a ghostly 19th-century author navigating her own macabre subconscious to save the worlds she created. The production leans heavily into tactile, hand-crafted stop-motion mixed with multimedia elements, offering a refreshing visual break from standard CGI animation. For a modern audience raised on auteur-driven projects and creator culture, seeing a passionate indie studio get the global spotlight they deserve is a win for creative expression across all entertainment mediums.
While the project sits firmly in the streaming and film space, its journey from regional cult favorite to international release resonates deeply with anyone who appreciates independent creators breaking through traditional gatekeepers. As streaming services continue to curate diverse global content, 'I Am Frankelda' proves that distinct, locally rooted stories can find a massive worldwide audience when given the right platform and mentorship. You can read the full, detailed interview over at Polygon.
Tags: Netflix, Animation, Guillermo Del Toro, Streaming, Film
Original article: Polygon