Nicolas Cage Slams AI Acting: 'Robots Can't Capture Human Essence'

Nicolas Cage has expressed strong reservations about the use of artificial intelligence in acting, warning that any actor who allows AI to alter their performance is heading towards "a dead end." He believes that "robots cannot reflect the human condition," emphasizing the importance of human authenticity in art.

During his acceptance speech for the best actor award at the Saturn Awards for his role in "Dream Scenario," Cage thanked director Kristoffer Borgli for his multifaceted contribution to the film. However, he quickly shifted focus to his concerns about the burgeoning influence of AI in the creative world. "I am a big believer in not letting robots dream for us," Cage stated, asserting that allowing AI to manipulate performances would lead to a loss of "integrity, purity, and truth of art," ultimately driven by financial interests rather than artistic ones.

Cage underscored the essential role of art, particularly film performances, in mirroring both external and internal human experiences through a deeply human process. He warned that if robots are allowed to take over, the resulting art would lack "heart" and eventually become "mush," devoid of genuine human response. He urged artists to "protect yourselves from AI interfering with your authentic and honest expressions."

Cage's sentiments echo concerns shared by other actors, particularly in the voice acting industry where AI has already made significant inroads. Notable voice actors such as Ned Luke from "Grand Theft Auto 5" and Doug Cockle from "The Witcher" have criticized the use of AI, with Luke calling out a chatbot for using his voice without permission, and Cockle describing AI as "inevitable" but "dangerous."

Filmmakers have also weighed in on the debate, though their views are not always aligned. Tim Burton has labeled AI-generated art as "very disturbing," while Zack Snyder, known for directing "Justice League" and "Rebel Moon," advocates for filmmakers to embrace AI rather than resist it.