Tony Leung on the Future of AI in Cinema

Hong Kong actor Tony Leung Chiu-wai warns that the film industry faces a critical crossroads as artificial intelligence threatens to replace human creativity with “calculations.” Serving as the jury head at the Shanghai International Film Festival (SIFF), Leung argues that while AI offers cost-saving potential for mainstream “popcorn” movies, it lacks the soul required for authentic storytelling. He maintains that the future of cinema relies on attracting younger generations back to the theatrical experience to preserve film language and artistic nuance.

How is AI Reshaping Film Production?

AI is currently being integrated into pre-production and post-production workflows to reduce overhead costs, according to Tony Leung. While these tools increase efficiency, Leung cautions that the reliance on algorithms risks stripping films of their creative essence. He describes AI as a “double-edged sword” that prioritizes output speed over the “soul” of cinematic art. Recent industry data suggests a divide: major studios are increasingly exploring generative AI to manage ballooning production budgets, while independent filmmakers continue to emphasize human-led, small-scale productions to maintain creative control.

Can Theatrical Experiences Compete with Digital Entertainment?

The film industry must find ways to invite a new generation into cinemas, as these audiences now navigate a landscape dominated by short-form video, streaming, and gaming. Leung argues that the theatrical experience is essential for appreciating the intricate details and “film language” that are often lost on smaller devices. He suggests that the market will shift toward smaller-scale, arthouse productions that challenge viewers to interpret stories rather than consuming them as one-size-fits-all templates. Education is a key component; festivals like SIFF are prioritizing screenings of auteur-driven works, such as Ildikó Enyedi’s Silent Friend, to expose younger viewers to diverse cinematic formats.

What Defines Success for Modern Filmmakers?

For veteran actors like Leung, project selection is no longer driven by genre or budget, but by the director’s vision and the potential for a collaborative, “dance-like” harmony on set. Reflecting on his work with Enyedi’s mini-crew, Leung noted that the lack of rigid control allowed for more inspiring, organic storytelling. This philosophy contrasts with the traditional blockbuster model, where massive crews and corporate mandates often dictate the creative direction. According to Leung, his future slate includes a project with Hong Kong director Johnnie To and a potential return to episodic content via streaming platforms, provided the creative partnership remains the primary motivator.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is AI replacing actors in film? While AI is used for digital de-aging and background animation, industry leaders like Tony Leung argue that it cannot replicate the human soul and subjective emotion required for compelling performances.
• Why is the theatrical experience considered superior to streaming? According to Leung, watching films on a large screen is necessary to capture subtle visual cues, “film language,” and the intended atmosphere that are often lost on mobile or home devices.
• What does Tony Leung look for in a film project? Leung prioritizes the director’s vision and a personal connection to the story over the genre or the size of the production budget.

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