Steven Spielberg Sets Boundaries on AI in Filmmaking

Web Editor

June 27, 2025

a man in a tuxedo and bow tie standing in front of a black backdrop with a star, David Brewster, awa

Background and Relevance of Steven Spielberg

Steven Spielberg, the acclaimed director behind blockbuster hits like “Jaws,” “Jurassic Park,” “Schindler’s List,” and “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial,” has been a significant figure in Hollywood for decades. His groundbreaking films have captivated audiences worldwide, and his opinions on emerging technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) carry considerable weight in the industry.

Spielberg’s Stance on AI

In a recent interview with Reuters, Spielberg expressed his concerns about the increasing use of AI in filmmaking. He stated, “I don’t want AI making creative decisions that I cannot make,” and “I do not wish to use AI as a non-human collaborator to craft my creative thoughts.”

Spielberg’s Career with Universal Studios

The interview took place following a ceremony honoring Spielberg’s long-standing relationship with Universal Studios, where many of his iconic films were produced. During the event, Spielberg humorously recounted his early fascination with the studio as a high school student, hiding in a bathroom to explore the premises unnoticed.

“Artificial Intelligence” – A Look Back

Spielberg’s 2001 film “Artificial Intelligence” explored themes of love, loss, and humanity through the perspective of an android. Released when AI was still in its infancy, the movie preempted advancements like OpenAI’s ChatGPT by 21 years.

“The film wasn’t so much about artificial intelligence as it was about sentient existence,” Spielberg explained. “It questioned whether one could genuinely love a sentient entity and if a ‘mother’ could love her ‘child robot.’ In hindsight, it was more about where AI would lead us in the future.”

AI’s Potential and Spielberg’s Concerns

Spielberg acknowledged the potential benefits of AI, stating that it could be a valuable tool if used responsibly and ethically to aid in finding cures for diseases like cancer.

“I’m not building a wall; it’s more like drawing a line in the sand to ensure I maintain creative control,” Spielberg clarified. “Currently, I don’t want AI making any creative decisions.”

Key Questions and Answers

  • What is Steven Spielberg’s stance on AI in filmmaking? Spielberg believes that while AI can be a valuable tool, he does not want it making creative decisions in the filmmaking process.
  • Why did Spielberg set boundaries regarding AI? He wants to maintain creative control and ensure that human input remains central in the filmmaking process.
  • What was the theme of Spielberg’s 2001 film “Artificial Intelligence”? The movie explored themes of love, loss, and humanity through the perspective of an android.
  • How does Spielberg view the future impact of AI in filmmaking? He acknowledges its potential benefits but insists on maintaining human creative control.