On Monday night at the Aero Theater in Santa Monica, during a Bleak Week Q&A with French provocateur Philippe Grandrieux, “The Brutalist” filmmaker Brady Corbet casually tossed a grenade into the crowd: he’s pro-AI in filmmaking.
While moderating the event, Corbet voiced support for giving filmmakers access to every available tool—whether it’s Hi-8, 65mm, or yes, even artificial intelligence. At that moment, one lone audience member clapped. The rest stayed silent, unsure if they’d misheard.
Corbet doubled down: “Murnau used the tools of his day. If he had AI, he would’ve used it without hesitation.” Cue the groans. Corbet didn’t backpedal. Instead, he shrugged and replied simply: “It’s already here.”
You only need to scroll through the latest Letterboxd reviews of “Sombre” to see how radioactive this subject is becoming. Some users are calling Corbet’s comments “a betrayal,” and another referred to him as a “low IQ individual.” Others are more philosophical. Either way, the discourse on this topic will continue on.
Let’s be honest: AI in film is the third rail right now. One mention, and the temperature in the room drops. For many, it’s not just about aesthetic concerns—it’s about livelihoods. AI played a significant role in the 2023 SAG-AFTRA strikes for a reason. Artists feel threatened, and rightfully so.
Still, Corbet’s point isn’t without merit. The tools are evolving, and many are already being used quietly behind the curtain. We’re beyond the denial phase. The real question is: how much AI is too much?
