James Cameron Slams AI-Generated Actors as 'Terrifying' Trend

James Cameron has made his feelings clear about the growing use of generative AI in the film world, describing the trend as nothing short of "horrifying". The celebrated director, known for his work on blockbuster hits, shared his thoughts during a recent chat on CBS’s Sunday Morning. When the topic turned to digital actors like Tilly Norwood, who was created entirely by artificial intelligence, Cameron didn’t hold back.

He addressed long-standing rumours that his own Avatar films had replaced real performers with computer-generated ones. Cameron was quick to set the record straight, saying,

“For years, there was this sense that, ‘Oh, they’re doing something strange with computers and they’re replacing actors,’ when in fact, once you really drill down and you see what we’re doing, it’s a celebration of the actor-director moment.”

Drawing the Line on AI in Storytelling

Making his position even plainer, Cameron contrasted his approach with the latest developments in generative AI. He explained,

“Now, go to the other end of the spectrum, and you’ve got generative AI, where they can make up a character.”

He went on,

“They can make up an actor. They can make up a performance from scratch with a text prompt. It’s like, no. That’s horrifying to me. That’s the opposite. That’s exactly what we’re not doing.”

His comments come in the wake of producer Eline Van der Velden’s announcement about Tilly Norwood, the first AI-generated actor to be signed by a casting agency. The move has sparked plenty of debate, with some in the industry worried about what this could mean for real performers and the future of storytelling on screen.

Tech Tensions and Industry Controversies

Cameron himself isn’t a stranger to controversy when it comes to technology. In a separate interview, he admitted he could see himself teaming up with Elon Musk down the track, despite their political differences. The two have apparently struck up a friendship, which has raised a few eyebrows among fans and industry insiders alike.

He’s also taken a swipe at other aspects of the modern film business, saying that productions made for streaming platforms like Netflix shouldn’t be in the running for Oscars. It’s a view that’s sure to stir up more discussion as the lines between cinema and streaming continue to blur.

Looking Ahead to the Next Blockbuster

Despite the ongoing debates, Cameron is pressing on with his own projects. His much-anticipated film, Avatar: Fire and Ash, is set to hit Aussie cinemas on 17 December. Punters are keen to see what he’s got in store this time, especially given his strong opinions on the role of technology in filmmaking.