Lisa Kudrow Criticizes Tom Hanks’ Youthful AI Movie. ‘Here’ Is ‘An Endorsement for AI’
The Film Here Captures Public Attention
The movie Here, starring Tom Hanks and directed by Robert Zemeckis, has garnered significant public attention—not only for its celebrated cast but also for its use of youth-enhancing technology. Released in October 2023, Here featured Hanks and Robin Wright digitally de-aged to appear younger in several key scenes. However, one of the strongest reactions came from actress Lisa Kudrow, who criticized the film as “an endorsement” of artificial intelligence.
Lisa Kudrow: Opinions on AI in Art
In a discussion on the Armchair Expert podcast, Lisa Kudrow expressed her views on the de-aging technology used in Here. She argued that incorporating AI into filmmaking could have negative consequences for the industry, especially for younger actors. Kudrow explained that using AI to de-age actors essentially “validates AI.” She added that this not only diminishes the value of actors but also raises concerns about the future of the profession in the film industry. “They shot the scene, and they can literally make it look as if it were their younger selves,” Kudrow remarked. She expressed concerns that this trend could prevent new actors from having opportunities to shine.
The Consequences of Using AI
Kudrow didn’t just criticize de-aging; she posed serious questions about the future of acting careers. “Putting that aside—what jobs will be left for people? Then what?” she questioned. With advancements in AI, she worried that young actors may no longer get the chance to showcase their talent. Kudrow highlighted that AI’s rapid development could result in a world where actors simply license and recycle their digital likenesses. This, she argued, might not only harm emerging talent but also stifle creativity and artistic diversity. “When will it ever be enough?” Kudrow asked, underscoring concerns over shrinking opportunities for new generations of artists.
Tom Hanks: A Perspective on AI
Tom Hanks, one of Hollywood’s most prominent actors, has spoken candidly about artificial intelligence. In an interview on the Adam Buxton Podcast, Hanks noted that AI could allow performances to “live forever,” even after an actor’s death. “Anyone can recreate themselves at any age using AI or deepfake technology,” he stated. Hanks acknowledged that while AI poses creative challenges, it also introduces legal dilemmas. “All guilds, all agencies, and all law firms are trying to determine the legal ramifications of our faces and voices as our intellectual property,” he explained.
Tom Hanks’ Experience with AI
Hanks also took to Instagram to clarify a deepfake incident where an AI version of him was promoting a dental plan. “I have nothing to do with this,” he emphasized, warning social media users to “be careful.” This highlights the risks AI technology poses, even for well-established stars. Hanks pointed out that while people might recognize an AI-generated performance, the real question is whether audiences would care. “There are those who won’t mind and won’t make that distinction,” he remarked.
Other Actors’ Concerns About AI
Arnold Schwarzenegger, too, has addressed AI’s role in entertainment. At an event in July 2023, he referred to The Terminator as “reality,” implying that AI has now become integral to modern storytelling. Similarly, Ice-T told Page Six that he was open to “acting forever” with AI, joking that “Future AI versions of me might be better than the current me.” Yet, he also acknowledged the risks, noting that it “could ruin everything.” These sentiments reflect a growing sense of unease about AI among actors.
The Future of Art in an AI-Driven World
The debate surrounding AI’s use in filmmaking continues to heat up. Lisa Kudrow has voiced concerns about AI’s long-term impact, while Tom Hanks highlighted both the opportunities and legal challenges it brings. As technology evolves, questions about the future of art and creative careers grow increasingly complex. Will AI serve as a supportive tool for creativity, or will it entirely replace human artists? That remains a significant, unresolved question.
Striking a Balance
Ultimately, the film industry must find a balance between embracing technological innovations and preserving human artistry’s inherent value. While AI can unlock exciting possibilities, maintaining creativity and authenticity in art remains essential. Lisa Kudrow and Tom Hanks’ perspectives reflect a critical moment for the entertainment industry—a transition in which technology and creativity collide. Audiences will have to stay tuned to see how this battle between art and technology unfolds.
