At the 2025 Golden Panda International Cultural Forum in Chengdu, in the Chinese mainland, Chen Kaige, acclaimed Chinese film director, sparked a lively discussion on the intersection of technology and storytelling in cinema. His message? AI tools can restore faded footage and generate breathtaking visuals, but they must serve, not supplant, human creativity.
"AI might help us recreate historical scenes or craft stunning landscapes," Chen noted. "But it can't replace a director's judgment, a screenwriter's craft or the soulful performance of actors."
He argued that the heart of any true film lies in its reflection of human experiences: love, hope, homecoming and farewell. While data-driven tools can accelerate production, the emotional depth and moral nuance of a story comes down to people at the helm.
For young filmmakers and tech enthusiasts tuning in, Chen's insights offer a clear call to action: Embrace innovation, but never lose sight of the human element. In an era where algorithms can generate nearly anything, authenticity remains the ultimate narrative engine.
As global creators explore new frontiers—virtual worlds, immersive formats and AI-driven workflows—Chen Kaige's advice resonates across borders. Whether you're a business leader, digital nomad or cultural changemaker, remember: Technology is a brush, not the artist.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
