Trees Are Watching faces criticism at TIFF over heavy AI use

The film ‘Trees Are Watching’, directed by Bahman Ghobadi and executive produced by Martin Scorsese, has faced heavy criticism at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) due to its extensive use of generative artificial intelligence.

Critics, including those from Variety, have described the film as resembling ‘a product of typed-in prompts rather than genuine, intelligent artistry.’ The backlash focuses on the use of AI for entire segments, including flashback mythology, transitions, and establishing shots, which reviewers noted felt disconnected from the human performances by actors such as Eva Green.

Some critics have suggested that major film festivals should implement mandatory disclosure for AI usage or consider prohibiting films that rely too heavily on the technology. The controversy follows previous tension regarding Scorsese’s recent associations with generative AI tools and his advocacy for the technology.