An influential filmmaker shaped by early life experiences is Guillermo del Toro. Growing up in Mexico, surrounded by folklore and horror stories, del Toro embraced the intersection of fantasy and reality in his work. His childhood fascination with monsters and the supernatural inspired his narrative style, characterized by rich visual storytelling and deep emotional themes. Films like "Pan's Labyrinth" and "The Shape of Water" reflect his passion for blending the fantastical with profound human experiences, often rooted in his cultural heritage.