Rian Johnson Blasts AI: “Is This Where We Want To Be?”
Rian Johnson is speaking out strongly against AI and its impact on the creative world. The director, known for his work on the Knives Out series, aligned himself with Guillermo del Toro’s recent anti-AI campaign. “Yeah, f*** AI. It’s something that’s making everything worse in every single way — I don’t get it,” Johnson told the media.
“I mean, I get it in a ‘This makes sense to save money by not paying artists’ way. But then, what the f*** are we doing? Is this where we want to be?”
Even among Johnson’s collaborators, opinions on AI differ. Actress and producer Natasha Lyonne, who remains attached as an executive producer on Johnson’s series Poker Face, co-founded an AI production company earlier this year, showing there’s room for debate. Johnson also clarified that T-Street’s involvement in Joseph Gordon-Levitt’s upcoming AI-themed project starring Rachel McAdams doesn’t mean he endorses the technology.
Right now, Johnson is focused on enjoying the awards season and connecting with other filmmakers. During a stop in Savannah, he met with creatives like Celine Song, director of Materialists, and Nia DaCosta, director of Hedda.
His friendship with del Toro has grown stronger through the awards circuit. “He has really inspired me to make more connections. It’s something that he puts a lot of value in. It’s incredible, the energy that he has for people,” Johnson said.
Johnson’s new movie Wake Up Dead Man is making waves. The mystery film is the third installment in the Knives Out series and serves as a standalone sequel to Glass Onion. Daniel Craig returns as detective Benoit Blanc, joined by Josh O’Connor, Glenn Close, Josh Brolin, Mila Kunis, Jeremy Renner, Kerry Washington, Andrew Scott, Cailee Spaeny, Daryl McCormack, and Thomas Haden Church.
The film premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival on September 6, and is set to hit theaters on November 26, followed by a Netflix release on December 12. Critics have responded positively to the latest installment.
Johnson’s stance on AI shows his commitment to protecting the craft of filmmaking, even as technology evolves. It’s a hot topic that will likely spark more debate in Hollywood. What do you think about his strong opposition to AI in movies? Share your thoughts in the comments.
