Nicolas Cage Calls AI Performances a 'Dead End', as 'Robots Cannot Reflect the Human Condition'

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Nicolas Cage Calls AI Performances a 'Dead End', as 'Robots Cannot Reflect the Human Condition'

Feb 20,25

Nicolas Cage decries the use of artificial intelligence in acting, warning that actors who allow AI to influence their performances are heading towards "a dead end." He made these comments during his Saturn Awards acceptance speech for Best Actor, as reported by Variety.

Cage emphasized his belief in the irreplaceable role of human experience in acting. He stated that robots are incapable of truly reflecting the human condition, arguing that allowing AI to manipulate even slightly will ultimately compromise the integrity and authenticity of artistic expression. He stressed the importance of art as a mirror to the human condition, a process requiring thoughtful and emotional recreation, something he believes AI cannot achieve. He cautioned against AI replacing the human heart and emotional depth of performance with mere financial gain.

Nicolas Cage has warned against the use of AI. Photo by Gregg DeGuire/Variety via Getty Images.

Cage's concerns echo those of other actors, particularly in the voice acting field, where AI has been used to recreate performances, even in major video games. Voice actors like Ned Luke (Grand Theft Auto 5) and Doug Cockle (The Witcher) have expressed similar anxieties, citing concerns about the potential loss of income and the ethical implications of AI-generated performances.

The film industry itself is also divided on the issue. While director Tim Burton expressed his unease with AI-generated art, describing it as "very disturbing," Zack Snyder, director of Justice League and Rebel Moon, advocates for embracing AI rather than resisting its integration into filmmaking.

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