Peter Jackson backs AI as film special effect, warns against likeness theft

Speaking at a Cannes masterclass a day after receiving an honorary Palme d’Or, Peter Jackson said artificial intelligence is "just a special effect" and that he "doesn't dislike it at all" when used in filmmaking. He compared AI to previous advances in visual effects, arguing it should be treated like any other tool.

Jackson emphasized that the critical issue is protecting actors from unauthorized AI duplication of their likenesses, saying that licensed use is acceptable but theft is not. He expressed concern that AI could affect awards recognition for motion‑capture performances, citing Andy Serkis’s Gollum as an example. Fans on social media reacted with mixed opinions, and Jackson used the occasion to tease the upcoming "The Hunt for Gollum" project.