Danny Boyle warns of AI risks to journalism at Venice Film Festival

Director Danny Boyle has expressed significant concerns regarding the proliferation of artificial intelligence and its potential to replace essential societal roles, specifically journalism and teaching. Speaking at a press conference for his film ‘Ink’ at the Venice Film Festival, Boyle described the current trajectory of AI development as ‘insane.’

Boyle emphasized that journalism serves as a vital pillar of civilization by providing truth-tellers who challenge power. He questioned whether AI journalists, which may be cheaper and more efficient, would possess the capacity or willingness to speak truth to the tech giants that created them. He also noted that teaching is another critical profession at risk of being replaced by automated technology.

‘Ink’, adapted from James Graham’s play, opens the Venice Film Festival. The film depicts the rise of the UK tabloid ‘The Sun’ following Rupert Murdoch’s acquisition of the newspaper in 1969. The production explores the history of Fleet Street and the influence of media moguls during that era.