George Clooney warns of AI risks at Venice Film Festival

At the 83rd Venice Film Festival, actor George Clooney issued warnings regarding the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence and its potential impact on Hollywood and journalism. Clooney expressed concern over the difficulty of distinguishing real information from deepfakes and noted that existing protections are insufficient. He also highlighted risks to the labor market, suggesting automation could eliminate significant roles in visual effects.

Festival director Alberto Barbera noted that Hollywood is currently facing a crisis characterized by fewer productions and rising costs, which has led to a lack of major premieres at the event. While Barbera acknowledged the risks of AI, he also described it as an ‘extraordinary tool’ with unprecedented creative potential, noting the festival's inclusion of a documentary produced entirely with AI.

During his press conference, Clooney also commented on the political climate in the United States, describing the current administration as a ‘kakistocracy’—a government run by the least qualified people—and expressing shame over the lack of basic decency in recent political discourse.