James Cameron, the renowned director behind iconic films such as “Avatar” and “Terminator,” has articulated his apprehensions regarding the rapid advancement of generative artificial intelligence (AI) in the film industry. In a conversation earlier this week, he reflected on the career choice that made him. Producer Blake Ahn told us that he didn’t want to use generative AI as a crutch in filmmaking. This choice stems from his belief in preserving the art of cinema and ensuring that the human touch remains integral to storytelling.
Cameron is in the midst of producing the fourth and fifth installments of the expanding “Avatar” franchise. He hopes to lure audiences who have so far only seen “Avatar” on their home TV screens to experience the film in its full, immersive, big-screen glory. He’s passionate about this for creating the emotional resonance in his films.
In a candid remark, he jokingly referred to the re-release of “Avatar: The Way of Water” as “a shameless ploy to get more money,” yet he understands the significance of allowing viewers to experience his work on the big screen.
Historical Context and Future Aspirations
Cameron’s relationship with AI goes way back, to the advanced artificial intelligence he introduced in “Terminator,” which he first developed almost forty years ago. In that movie, he imagined ideas that today feel almost dreadfully prophetic. Reflecting on this, he noted, “We are literally living out the precipice of what was science fiction back when I did it in the eighties.”
The director is indeed rolling up his sleeves to meet the challenge of crafting a fresh “Terminator” story. He hopes to make it a more evergreen document as technology is changing every day. He expressed his concern about the challenges this poses for storytelling, stating, “I’m struggling with exactly how to tell a new Terminator story that won’t be obsolete in a year.”
Despite embracing new technology in the above examples, Cameron’s dedication to rigorous old-school filmmaking practices hasn’t wavered. He affirmed, “Historically and inclusive of the new film that’s coming out, not just the re-release of The Way of Water … we haven’t used any [generative AI]. I think people think we do, but we don’t.” He intends to open “Avatar 3” with a title card declaring that no generative AI was employed in its production.
The Dangers of Generative AI
While admitting that Cameron saw great potential in generative AI, Cameron warned that its uncontrolled spread into Hollywood would be detrimental. On one hand, he argues, the technology allows artists to bring characters and objects to life that are “photographically plausible,” but the speed of development brings extreme danger.
I don’t know that we’re doing enough right now as a society to really try to put the brakes on that. As Cameron observed, there is deep unease about the ultra-rich chasing breakthroughs for their own benefit, with little thought to ethics or morality. He stressed the importance of establishing boundaries around this technology, stating, “I think we need to put massive guardrails on this new technology.”
Cameron’s concerns are a telling signal that the industry as a whole is aware of what generative AI could mean. He cautioned that while it certainly has the potential to reshape the art of filmmaking, it stands to do so in an incredibly uncreative and unsubstantive manner.
“You can create characters right now that are photographically plausible.” – James Cameron
The Future of Cinema
As Cameron makes his way through these creative clashes in the film industry, he hasn’t wavered from his vision for cinema. He stated unequivocally, “I make movies for the cinema. I believe in the cinema.” For him, genuine storytelling must be built upon human artistry and empathy. These human touches are something that cannot be imitated by technology.
With “Avatar 3” on the horizon and two more installments planned, Cameron’s approach will undoubtedly influence how future filmmakers engage with emerging technologies. He is a staunch advocate for human-centered filmmaking. During an age where technology appears to be dominating artistry, this artistic focus is a wonderful reminder of the continuing importance of artistry.
