Danny Boyle discusses ‘Ink’ and use of AI for Margaret Thatcher

Director Danny Boyle has discussed the production of his new film, ‘Ink’, which depicts the rise of media tycoon Rupert Murdoch and his acquisition of the British tabloid The Sun. During an event at the BFI London Film Festival, Boyle noted that the production faced significant financial challenges, describing a ‘siege mentality’ among the team before securing funding from Studiocanal and Netflix.

The film, based on James Graham’s play, follows the partnership between Murdoch and editor Larry Lamb. Boyle addressed the controversial nature of the subject matter, stating he aimed to make the film entertaining to avoid viewers approaching it with immediate modern-day judgment regarding Murdoch or the newspaper.

Boyle also revealed that the production utilized AI to recreate the face of the late UK Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher for specific scenes. He explained that while an impersonator performed the role, AI was used to overlay Thatcher’s likeness to ensure authenticity. Boyle noted he did not seek permission from her estate, arguing that such estates should not control the ability to realize specific creative ideas.