Guillermo del Toro’s Monsters: The 10 Most Frightening Ranked

Guillermo del Toro has long been celebrated for his extraordinary ability to conjure up creatures that linger in the imagination. Some of his creations are more unsettling in appearance than in nature, while others are as menacing as they look. His films have introduced us to everything from reanimated bodies and spectral presences to colossal sea beasts and demonic entities, each one leaving a distinct impression on viewers.

The Gentle and the Grotesque

In his recent adaptation of Mary Shelley’s classic, audiences encountered del Toro’s take on The Creature, portrayed by Jacob Elordi. Towering and imposing, this reanimated figure initially appears more misunderstood than monstrous, displaying a surprising innocence. Despite a turn towards violence later in the narrative, his underlying vulnerability remains evident, particularly in his final moments with his creator. Oddly enough, there’s an unexpected allure to his appearance.

Hellboy, the protagonist of the cult favourite from 2004, is another example. With his red skin, filed horns, and tail, he’s physically formidable and immune to illness. Yet, beneath the gruff exterior lies a character with a dry sense of humour and a surprising warmth, far removed from the typical demonic archetype.

Then there’s the Amphibian Man from the award-winning 2017 film. This aquatic being, held captive in a secret facility, becomes the object of affection for a mute woman determined to rescue him. The creature’s ethereal presence and gentle nature challenge the notion that all monsters are to be feared, embodying del Toro’s fascination with the misunderstood.

Haunting Spirits and Enigmatic Guides

Crimson Peak, initially overlooked, has since been recognised for its gothic charm. The film’s haunted mansion is home to red-hued apparitions, their forms shaped by past suffering. These spirits are as visually striking as they are unsettling, serving as reminders of the pain they endured.

In Pan’s Labyrinth, the Faun stands out as a particularly enigmatic figure. With a design both captivating and disconcerting, he guides Ofelia through a fantastical world. Doug Jones’s portrayal brings a sense of mystery and ambiguity, making the Faun both a source of comfort and unease.

Yet, it’s the Pale Man from the same film who truly embodies nightmare fuel. With his grotesque features and predatory behaviour, he is the stuff of childhood terrors. Ofelia’s encounter with this child-devouring entity is among the most memorable—and disturbing—moments in del Toro’s oeuvre.

Predators and Behemoths

Blade II introduced audiences to Jared Nomak and his breed of reapers—a new strain of vampires with horrifying, fang-lined mouths and a penchant for feeding on their own kind. Their rage and thirst for vengeance make them formidable adversaries, and their appearance is enough to unsettle even the bravest viewer.

Pacific Rim brought forth Slattern, a Category V kaiju whose sheer size and power set him apart. With three lethal tails and the ability to take down the mightiest Jaegers, Slattern is a force of nature best avoided. The film’s blend of giant robots and monstrous adversaries delivers a spectacle that’s both thrilling and terrifying.

Few recall the Judas Breed from Mimic, but these genetically engineered insects are among del Toro’s most disturbing creations. Designed to eradicate disease-carrying cockroaches, they evolve into human-sized predators with a mind of their own. The thought of such creatures lurking in the shadows is enough to make anyone shudder.

Icons of Death and Decay

Finally, the Angel of Death from Hellboy II: The Golden Army stands as a haunting vision. Though not malevolent, this figure personifies mortality in a way that is both beautiful and terrifying. With only a brief appearance, the Angel of Death leaves a lasting impression, embodying the themes of horror, demise, and the inevitable passage of time in a manner that is uniquely del Toro.

Which of these unforgettable beings do you find most unsettling?