Venice Film Festival AI creativity forum

The Venice Film Festival is hosting the ‘Future of Creativity’ forum, an invite-only symposium designed to examine how artificial intelligence and technological shifts are transforming disciplines such as cinema, literature, and the visual arts.

During the 83rd festival, industry leaders have engaged in debates regarding the impact of AI on the film industry. Artistic director Alberto Barbera characterized the technology as an “extraordinary tool” that offers both creative advantages and significant dangers. He noted that Hollywood is currently facing a crisis of rising costs and fewer productions, which has resulted in a lack of major premieres at the event.

Actor George Clooney raised concerns regarding the rapid advancement of AI, specifically citing the insufficiency of current protections against deepfakes, the erosion of truth, and threats to job security. He suggested that automation could eliminate significant roles in visual effects. During a press conference, Clooney also commented on the United States political climate, describing the current administration as a “kakistocracy” and expressing shame over the lack of basic decency in recent political discourse.

The festival also highlighted the technology's practical application through the premiere of “Be Brave,” a documentary created entirely using AI.