James Cameron Draws the Line on AI in Avatar Films

James Cameron, the director behind the much-anticipated Avatar: Fire and Ash, has made his position on artificial intelligence clear, distinguishing between the creative use of generative AI and the more profound risks posed by advanced AI systems. While he does not dismiss the potential of generative AI outright, Cameron is adamant that it will not feature in any of the Avatar films, including the upcoming instalment.

Speaking to ComicBook, Cameron explained,

"I'm not negative about generative AI. I just wanted to point out we don't use it on the Avatar films,"

adding,

"We honour and celebrate actors. We don't replace actors. That's going to find its level. I think Hollywood will be self-policing on that. We'll find our way through that. But we can only find our way through it as artists if we exist. So it's the existential threat from big AI that worries me more than all that stuff."

Generative AI and the Creative Process

Cameron’s approach to technology in filmmaking is measured. He recognises the debate around generative AI, particularly its potential to alter the creative landscape. However, he remains committed to traditional methods, emphasising the importance of human performance and artistic collaboration. For Cameron, the craft of acting and the unique contributions of artists are irreplaceable, and he trusts that the industry will regulate itself to protect these values.

His comments reflect a broader conversation in the film world, where the integration of AI tools has sparked both excitement and apprehension. Cameron’s assurance that Avatar will not rely on such technology is likely to reassure fans who value authenticity and the human touch in cinema.

Existential Fears and the Skynet Parable

Beyond the realm of filmmaking, Cameron’s concerns extend to the existential risks associated with advanced AI. This theme is not unfamiliar to his work; the Terminator franchise, which he created, famously centres on a rogue AI known as Skynet that brings humanity to the brink of extinction. Cameron notes that the issues he explored in those films are now being taken seriously by the technology sector.

He observes that the so-called 'Skynet Problem' is now a topic of genuine discussion among experts, who are grappling with questions of alignment and control.

"They call it the 'Skynet Problem,' and it's being discussed,"

Cameron remarks.

"But obviously, what they're talking about is alignment. They have to be trained, they have to be taught, they have to be constrained in a way that they only work toward human good. The problem is, who makes that decision? Who decides what's good for us? We can't agree amongst ourselves on a damn thing…so whose morality, whose sense of what's best for us, is going to prevail? We're not going to figure this out in time."

Looking Ahead

As the debate over AI’s role in society intensifies, Cameron’s perspective offers a reminder of the complexities involved. While generative AI may influence the future of filmmaking, it is the broader, more unpredictable consequences of advanced AI that he finds most troubling. The questions of control, ethics, and collective decision-making remain unresolved, and Cameron is not convinced that solutions will arrive before the technology outpaces our ability to manage it.

Avatar: Fire and Ash is set to arrive in cinemas on 19 December. Until then, audiences can look forward to a slate of other highly anticipated releases in 2025 and beyond.