Nicolas Cage Calls AI Performances a 'Dead End', as 'Robots Cannot Reflect the Human Condition'

Nicolas Cage has issued a strong warning against the use of artificial intelligence in acting, asserting that actors who allow AI to influence their performances are heading towards "a dead end." He made this statement during his Saturn Awards acceptance speech for Best Actor, for his role in Dream Scenario.

As reported by Variety, Cage expressed his concerns about AI's potential to undermine the authenticity of acting: "Robots cannot reflect the human condition," he stated. He emphasized that allowing AI to manipulate even a small aspect of a performance could lead to a complete erosion of artistic integrity, ultimately prioritizing financial gain over artistic truth.

Cage believes the core purpose of art, including acting, is to reflect the human experience through a thoughtful and emotional creative process – something he believes AI is incapable of achieving. He argued that AI-influenced performances would lack heart, lose their edge, and ultimately result in a robotic, rather than human, portrayal of life. He urged actors to protect themselves from AI's interference, advocating for authentic and honest self-expression.

Cage's concerns are echoed by other actors, particularly in the voice acting field, where AI has been used to recreate entire performances, even in high-profile video games. Several voice actors, including Ned Luke (Grand Theft Auto 5) and Doug Cockle (The Witcher), have voiced their opposition, citing concerns about the potential loss of income and the ethical implications of AI-generated performances.

The filmmaking community is also divided on the issue. While Tim Burton expressed his unease with AI-generated art, describing it as "very disturbing," Zack Snyder has advocated for filmmakers to embrace AI rather than resist it.