Goa, November 25, 2025 – Filmmaker Shekhar Kapur, the director of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI), addressed the impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on the film industry during a session at the 56th IFFI in Goa. The session, titled "An Eurasian Festival Frontier: Do We Need to Redefine Cinema in the World of AI?", featured Kapur in conversation with Tricia Tuttle, Director of the Berlin International Film Festival.
Kapur emphasized that AI is rapidly reshaping cinema and urged actors to take proactive measures to protect their digital likenesses. He revealed that several prominent actors, including Tom Cruise, Hrithik Roshan, and Anil Kapoor, have already begun copyrighting themselves. This move comes in response to the increasing sophistication of AI, which can now create convincing digital representations of individuals. Kapur stressed that in this new landscape, safeguarding one's digital identity is crucial.
During the discussion, Kapur shared insights from his experience creating his AI-driven series, War Lord. He noted the significant cost reduction that AI facilitates, stating that a film that might have cost $300 million can now be produced for around $3 million with the help of AI. Kapur expressed his belief that AI is the "most democratic technology ever" because it lowers the barriers to entry for new filmmakers. He is also setting up an AI-focused film school in Mumbai’s Dharavi slum district.
Kapur acknowledged AI's potential to democratize filmmaking and spread cinema, especially in regions with limited resources. He is including an AI festival within IFFI and the AI Hackathon, to promote AI in a sector where resources are limited or expensive. He also emphasized that AI is a transformative but imperfect medium.
Despite acknowledging AI's capabilities, Kapur insisted that the human element remains central to cinema. He argued that AI cannot yet replicate the emotional depth and nuances that actors bring to their performances. According to Kapur, "AI doesn't understand pupils," highlighting the inability of machines to replicate the subtle emotional cues conveyed through an actor's eyes. He also pointed out that AI cannot replicate the unpredictable, lively interactions between actors, directors, and crew members on a film set.
Tuttle echoed Kapur's sentiments, cautioning against over-reliance on technology. She stated that simply having access to advanced AI tools does not guarantee improved creative quality. "It's not the tools that make films exceptional. It's the storytelling and skill that do,” she said. Tuttle also cautioned against using technology to revive past stars without consent or context.
Kapur also addressed the legal challenges surrounding AI and copyright. He shared an anecdote about his attempt to copyright the iconic "Mogambo Khush Hua" dialogue from the film Mr. India. He was advised that while the rights to the late actor Amrish Puri's estate belong to his family, the character of Mogambo belongs to the film and cannot be copyrighted.
Kapur suggested that AI should not be seen as a threat to traditional cinema, especially in countries like India. He believes that AI-generated content will likely develop its own platforms, visual styles, and audience interactions, similar to the emergence of platforms like TikTok. Kapur sees AI as a leveller and democratiser in the film industry.
The session was jointly hosted by the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC), the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, and the Entertainment Society of Goa (ESG). The nine-day film festival will continue until November 28.
