Guillermo del Toro has had a relatively quiet 2026, but the lingering glow of his Oscar-winning Frankenstein continues to keep him in the spotlight. That film, starring Jacob Elordi in a career-defining role, earned three Academy Awards and six additional nominations, cementing del Toro's status as one of cinema's most visionary storytellers. Yet despite the star power of Oscar Isaac, Christoph Waltz, and Mia Goth, Netflix chose not to give Frankenstein a wide theatrical release—a decision that still rankles fans. It was del Toro's first feature since Pinocchio, which won the Oscar for Best Animated Feature, and both films now live on Netflix, though their theatrical footprints were minimal, with Pinocchio grossing just $100,000 in its entire run.
But while those recent projects have dominated headlines, one of del Toro's most underrated gems is quietly making waves again. Pacific Rim, his 2013 kaiju-vs-Jaeger epic starring Idris Elba and Charlie Hunnam, has become a global streaming sleeper hit. The film, which grossed over $410 million worldwide and earned a BAFTA nomination for Best Visual Effects, has surged into the top 10 purchases on platforms like Prime Video and Apple TV in several countries this July. This is especially notable because Pacific Rim still lacks a dedicated streaming home in the U.S., available only for rental or digital purchase.
The renewed interest in Pacific Rim is a testament to its enduring appeal. Del Toro's signature blend of spectacle and heart, combined with the epic battles between giant monsters and towering robots, has aged remarkably well. For many viewers, it's a nostalgic trip back to a time when blockbusters felt both grand and personal. The film's visual effects remain stunning, and its themes of unity and resilience resonate even more today.
Interestingly, Pacific Rim's success comes at a time when del Toro's other works are also finding new audiences. His Frankenstein adaptation, which premiered on Netflix, has been a streaming favorite, and Pinocchio continues to charm new viewers. Together, these films showcase del Toro's range, from dark fairy tales to epic sci-fi, and his ability to craft worlds that linger in the imagination.
For those who haven't seen Pacific Rim in a while—or at all—now is the perfect time to revisit it. The film is available on VOD platforms like Prime Video and Apple TV, and its recent surge in popularity suggests that many are doing just that. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer, the movie offers a thrilling escape into a world where humanity's survival hinges on courage and collaboration.
It's worth noting that del Toro did not return for the sequel, Pacific Rim: Uprising, which was directed by Steve DeKnight and featured a new cast led by John Boyega, Scott Eastwood, and Cailee Spaeny. That film, which received mixed reviews, is currently streaming on HBO Max. But for many, the original remains the definitive Pacific Rim experience.
As del Toro continues to develop new projects, fans can only hope that his future work will receive the wide theatrical releases they deserve. In the meantime, the resurgence of Pacific Rim serves as a reminder of his unparalleled ability to create cinematic worlds that captivate audiences across generations. For more on del Toro's upcoming endeavors and other thrilling recommendations, check out our list of the greatest thrillers since 1990 or dive into Oscar Isaac's Nazi-hunting thriller arriving on Prime Video soon.
