Filmmaker Peter Jackson has expressed mixed feelings about the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in cinema during a recent masterclass at the Cannes Film Festival. He believes it is unfortunate that the ongoing debate about AI affects the recognition of actors like Andy Serkis, who played Gollum in “The Lord of the Rings.” Jackson stated that while some fear AI could be harmful, he does not dislike its application in film, comparing it to traditional special effects.
He emphasized the importance of protecting actors’ rights, particularly against the misuse of their likenesses through AI. Jackson pointed out that as long as actors give permission, creating AI duplicates is acceptable. The current conversation around AI is particularly detrimental to motion-capture performances, such as Serkis’s, which Jackson argues deserve awards recognition. He voiced concern that AI-generated characters might not receive accolades, which he considers unfair, especially since Serkis’s portrayal was entirely human.
In the same discussion, Jackson mentioned the forthcoming film “The Hunt for Gollum,” which will be directed and starred in by Serkis. Jackson explained that Serkis has a deep understanding of the character’s psychological struggles and addictions, making him the right choice to direct.
Jackson received an Honorary Palme d’Or at the festival, presented by Elijah Wood, who played Frodo Baggins. Wood praised Jackson for revolutionising filmmaking and noted that the decision to create the trilogy was seen as a risky venture. Jackson recalled how a 20-minute preview of “The Fellowship of the Ring” at Cannes in 2001 changed public perception of the project, leading to its success.
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