Cabinet of Curiosities does well to explain that, showing through frank discussion and an endless stream of images just how these films go from del Toro’s imagination to being fully realised onscreen.

The pictures in the book are stunning, ranging from personally-drawn sketches with scribbled instructions, set design blueprints, promotional photography, posters and notebook entries. It all feels incredibly personal, and showcases Guillermo as a man of scope: a visual architect with a limitless imagination. Del Toro’s history is explained in great detail too, providing further evocative insights into the motivations of a filmic genius. It tells his story, from his humble upbringing in Guadalajara, New Mexico to his 20-year film career, starting with breakout feature Cronos right up to this year’s Pacific Rim.

The book showcases the director as a man of pure imagination, heavily influenced by media in all its forms (comic books, sculpture and architecture, literature, mainstream art) and reflects that he is clearly immersed in pop culture. These influences are then translated into the dark fantasy or horror aspects of his films.

A very personal, and often emotive account, the book shows us, through never before seen photography, del Toro’s home ‘Bleak House’ and shows his vast collection of literature, props, models, paintings, films and other media that has influenced his work. The book illustrates how respected del Toro is for his visionary insight and the way that he applies it to his work. This is most obvious in the complimentary foreword provided by director James Cameron and the afterword, provided by Hollywood actor Tom Cruise.

Quite simply, this is a fantastic book. It’s a beautifully worded, glossy hardback, but in no way is this just a coffee table book. Once opened, Cabinet of Curiosities reflects an incredibly intellectual look at the mind and creative processes of one of the modern day’s most significant filmmakers and how the psychology of his life has translated into his work onscreen.

Published on 25 October 2013 by Titan Books.

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