Robert Zemeckis’ much-anticipated film Here brings together iconic stars Tom Hanks and Robin Wright in a sweeping, multi-generational narrative. Based on Richard McGuire’s acclaimed graphic novel, the movie explores the lives of multiple families across generations, all tied to a single location. While Here has gained attention for its nostalgic value and dramatic themes, it has also sparked significant controversy for its heavy reliance on artificial intelligence (AI).
Actress Lisa Kudrow recently criticized the film’s use of AI to digitally de-age its characters, describing the technique as “an endorsement for AI.” Her comments come at a time when the entertainment industry is grappling with the implications of AI, following labor strikes by SAG-AFTRA and WGA that demanded regulation of the technology.
The Use of AI in Here
Zemeckis, who co-wrote the screenplay with Forrest Gump collaborator Eric Roth, uses advanced AI and deepfake technologies to digitally transform his cast, allowing them to appear decades younger. This innovative approach enables the actors to portray their characters across multiple timelines.
“They shot the scene, and they could actually see the playback of themselves as younger,” Kudrow revealed during an episode of the Armchair Expert podcast. While the technology offers groundbreaking opportunities for storytelling, Kudrow expressed concern that its endorsement in mainstream cinema sets a dangerous precedent for the future of the entertainment industry.
“It’s not like, ‘Oh, it’s going to ruin everything,’ but what will be left?” Kudrow asked. “Forget actors, what about up-and-coming actors? They’ll just be licensing and recycling.”
Also Read: Understanding Generative AI vs. Analytical AI: Key Differences Explained
Broader Implications of AI on the Industry
Kudrow’s concerns extend beyond the immediate impact on actors. She questioned the long-term societal implications, particularly the potential for reduced job opportunities across industries. “Set that completely aside, what work will there be for human beings? Then what? There’ll be some kind of living stipend for people, and you won’t have to work? How can it possibly be enough?”
Tom Hanks, who stars in Here, had previously addressed the transformative potential of AI in entertainment. Speaking on The Adam Buxton Podcast, Hanks noted that AI allows actors to create performances that outlive them.
“If I wanted to, I could get together and pitch a series of seven movies that would star me in them, in which I would be 32 years old from now until kingdom come,” he explained. “Anybody can now recreate themselves at any age by way of AI or deepfake technology.”
The Power and Peril of Digital Immortality
Hanks emphasized that AI could enable his performances to continue even after his death, stating, “I could be hit by a bus tomorrow, and that’s it, but my performances can go on and on and on.” However, he acknowledged the ethical concerns, noting that without proper disclosure, audiences may not be able to distinguish between genuine performances and AI-generated ones.
This raises pressing questions about consent, intellectual property, and the authenticity of art. While technology like this could revolutionize filmmaking, it also has the potential to erode the human element of storytelling.
Also Read: BBC Files Complaint with Apple Over AI-Generated Fake News
What Is Here About?
Here is a deeply emotional narrative about the human experience, chronicling the lives of multiple families inhabiting a single location over generations. The film’s innovative use of digital de-aging aims to convey the passage of time in a seamless and visually compelling manner.
Produced by Zemeckis, Derek Hogue, Jack Rapke, and Bill Block, the film also stars Paul Bettany, Kelly Reilly, and Michelle Dockery. The AI-driven technology used in Here allows the cast to embody their characters at various ages without the need for traditional makeup or body doubles.
Lisa Kudrow criticism
Kudrow’s criticism reflects growing apprehension within the entertainment industry about AI’s encroachment on creative jobs. The recent SAG-AFTRA and WGA strikes highlighted concerns about the unregulated use of AI, particularly its potential to replace writers, actors, and other professionals.
Actress Cate Blanchett has also voiced her concerns, describing AI as “incredibly destructive” to the entertainment industry. “It’s not just about actors; it’s about the essence of creativity and human connection,” Blanchett warned at the Toronto International Film Festival.
Also Read: Insights from Ilya Sutskever: Superintelligent AI will be ‘unpredictable’
A Call for Regulation and Ethical Use
The controversy surrounding Here underscores the urgent need for clear guidelines and regulations to govern AI’s use in the entertainment industry. While technology can enhance storytelling, it must be employed responsibly to preserve the integrity of human creativity.
As audiences grapple with these changes, the industry must strike a balance between innovation and tradition, ensuring that the magic of cinema remains rooted in authentic human experiences.
FAQs
1. What is Robert Zemeckis’ Here about?
Here is a multi-generational drama that follows the lives of various families inhabiting a single location, exploring the human experience over time.
2. Why is Lisa Kudrow criticizing Here?
Lisa Kudrow criticized Here for its use of AI-powered digital de-aging, describing it as “an endorsement for AI” and raising concerns about its impact on the entertainment industry.
3. What technology was used in Here?
The film uses AI and deepfake technology to digitally de-age its cast, allowing actors to appear younger and portray their characters across different timelines.
4. What are the ethical concerns of AI in filmmaking?
Critics worry that AI could replace human actors, limit opportunities for new talent, and blur the line between genuine and AI-generated performances.
5. What did Tom Hanks say about AI in acting?
Tom Hanks noted that AI could allow actors to recreate themselves at any age, enabling their performances to continue indefinitely, even after death.
6. How did AI enhance Here’s storytelling?
The digital de-aging technology allowed the cast to seamlessly depict their characters across multiple timelines without traditional makeup or doubles.
7. What was the response from the entertainment industry?
Many industry professionals, including Lisa Kudrow and Cate Blanchett, have expressed concerns about AI’s impact, calling for regulations to protect creative jobs.
8. How does AI affect job opportunities in entertainment?
Critics argue that AI could reduce opportunities for actors, writers, and other creatives by enabling the recycling of performances and scripts.
9. What steps can be taken to regulate AI in film?
The industry needs clear guidelines and ethical standards to govern AI’s use, ensuring it complements human creativity rather than replacing it.
10. What role does Here play in the AI debate?
Here serves as a focal point in the debate over AI in filmmaking, showcasing both its potential and its controversial implications for the industry.