James Cameron Expresses Horror at Using Generative AI to Create Characters

James Cameron confirmed to CBS News Sunday that he did not employ generative AI to develop characters for Avatar: Fire and Ash, describing the idea as "horrifying." The films production involved constructing a massive ocean set, with actors performing in a 250,000-gallon tank. Digital artists then transformed these recordings into the on-screen characters.

For performance capture, we use numerous cameras to record the actors body movements, Cameron explained. Additionally, oneor now twocameras focus on the face, capturing close-ups constantly. Theres something wonderful about being in a full-time close-up; it feels much like a theater rehearsal.

Cameron noted that his early work relied heavily on practical effects: he used them in The Terminator, and puppeteers animated the creatures in Alien. His first experience with CGI came during The Abyss, followed by Titanic, which he pursued mainly to explore the shipwreck. It was a way to an end, he said. I needed a story, so I thought, Romeo and Julietyoung, doomed love on the Titanic. And that was it.

Although he wrote the first Avatar script before Titanic, the technology to realize it fully did not yet exist. Cameron emphasized that what some perceived as computer-generated replacements of actors was actually a celebration of the actor-director collaboration. Generative AI, on the other hand, can invent a character or performance from scratch using just a text prompt, he said. Thats the exact opposite of what were doingits horrifying to me.

For more details, read the full CBS News interview with James Cameron.

James Cameron’s Stance on AI in Filmmaking: A Commitment to Authentic Actor-Director Collaboration

James Cameron has firmly rejected the notion of using generative AI to create characters for "Avatar: Fire and Ash," calling the idea "horrifying." In an interview with CBS News, Cameron emphasized that his approach remains grounded in practical filmmaking techniques and actor-driven performance capture. Unlike AI-driven processes that can generate characters or performances from scratch using text prompts, Cameron’s production relied on real-world sets and extensive use of performance capture technology to bring the characters to life.

The director underscored his commitment to the human element in filmmaking, highlighting the physicality of the set—especially the massive 250,000-gallon tank used to replicate ocean scenes. This set-up, alongside multiple cameras capturing actors' movements and facial expressions, allowed Cameron to maintain close actor-director collaboration, which he believes is vital for authenticity. In his view, the essence of filmmaking is rooted in the interaction between the director and the actor, a process he describes as resembling a live theater rehearsal.

Cameron’s long history with practical effects, from his early works like "The Terminator" to "Titanic" and "Avatar," reflects his belief in the tangible aspects of filmmaking. Even when venturing into CGI, such as in "Titanic," Cameron viewed technology as a tool to enhance storytelling, not replace the human touch. His rejection of AI in character creation aligns with his broader philosophy that technology should serve the narrative, not overshadow it. As the film industry continues to explore AI’s potential, Cameron’s stance serves as a reminder of the irreplaceable value of human creativity and collaboration in the arts.

Sources:

• James Cameron Says Using Generative AI to Create Characters Is ‘Horrifying to Me’