Tom Cruise has defended human creativity in cinema, saying audiences will continue to value authentic storytelling despite AI’s growing influence.
Tom Cruise has defended the importance of human creativity in cinema, saying audiences will continue to seek authentic filmmaking despite the growing influence of artificial intelligence in Hollywood.
Tom Cruise backs human creativity
Tom Cruise delivered an impassioned defence of human-made cinema during BAFTA’s “Life in Pictures” event in London on Monday night.
During a six-minute discussion with moderator Edith Bowman, Cruise was asked about the growing influence of artificial intelligence on the film industry.
The veteran actor responded emphatically: “Here’s the thing: There is nothing like human.”
Cruise explained that his commitment to protecting the theatrical experience is partly driven by cinema’s ability to bring people together.
He pointed to the strength of the summer box office as evidence that audiences continue to value the shared experience of watching films in cinemas, noting that films generated $4.76 billion between May 1 and Labor Day.
“People want that experience. They’re going to movie theatres,” Cruise said, adding that he has always maintained his faith in humanity.
Cruise acknowledges AI’s growing role
While Cruise acknowledged that artificial intelligence is becoming an increasingly important part of filmmaking, he stopped short of describing the technology solely as a threat.
“You know, it is coming and it’s going to happen. But people want to see real things,” he said.
His comments were met with applause from the audience at the BAFTA event.
Cruise also encouraged filmmakers and other creative professionals to remain committed to their craft as technology continues to reshape the entertainment industry.
“What you put attention on, you give life,” he told the audience, highlighting his desire to protect the many craftspeople whose careers depend on filmmaking.
Digger marks Cruise’s next major release
Cruise’s comments came as he prepares for his next major film, Digger, directed by The Revenant filmmaker Alejandro G. Iñárritu.
The actor plays a wealthy oil tycoon in the film and underwent an extensive prosthetic transformation for the role.
Cruise revealed that the make-up process initially took around six hours to complete.
“I’ve never read a movie like this,” Cruise said of the project. “It’s the most original film and one of the most moving films I’ve ever seen.”
Digger is scheduled to arrive in cinemas on October 2 through Warner Bros.
Cruise has previously raised AI concerns
The actor has previously spoken about the implications of artificial intelligence for performers.
During the 2023 SAG-AFTRA negotiations, Cruise reportedly advocated for stronger protections concerning the use of AI and performers’ likenesses.
His latest comments reinforce his longstanding emphasis on cinema as a shared human experience.
As artificial intelligence continues to influence how films are developed, produced and presented, Cruise’s remarks underline his belief that technology should not replace the human element at the heart of filmmaking.