Nicolas Cage delivered a powerful message against the encroachment of artificial intelligence in acting during his Saturn Awards acceptance speech for Best Actor in Dream Scenario. He vehemently argued that allowing AI to influence performances leads actors down "a dead end," asserting that robots are incapable of truly reflecting the human condition.
Cage expressed his gratitude to director Kristoffer Borgli, praising his work on Dream Scenario, before shifting his focus to the burgeoning AI landscape. He declared his firm belief in the importance of human creativity and intuition, stating, "Robots cannot reflect the human condition for us." He warned that even minor AI manipulation of performances would ultimately compromise artistic integrity, purity, and truth, replacing them with purely financial considerations. He stressed the crucial role of art in mirroring the human experience, a task he believes AI is fundamentally unequipped to handle. He cautioned against allowing AI to dictate artistic expression, fearing a future where art lacks heart, edge, and genuine human response.
Cage isn't alone in his concerns. The use of AI, particularly in voice acting, has sparked considerable controversy. High-profile cases, such as the use of AI-generated voiceovers in video games, have led to vocal opposition from actors like Ned Luke (Grand Theft Auto 5) and Doug Cockle (The Witcher), who highlight the potential for AI to displace actors and deprive them of income.
The filmmaking community is similarly divided. While renowned director Tim Burton expressed deep unease about AI-generated art, describing it as "very disturbing," Zack Snyder, director of Justice League and Rebel Moon, advocates for embracing AI technology rather than resisting it.