Tony Leung: AI lacks soul in cinema

Tony Leung, presiding over the main jury at the Shanghai International Film Festival (SIFF), expressed reservations about artificial intelligence in filmmaking, describing it as a "double-edged sword." He fears the technology will lead to widespread job losses and a proliferation of uncreative, algorithm-driven "popcorn movies."

Leung also lamented the decline of the traditional cinema experience, admitting he "really hate(s)" watching movies on phones. He stressed that films should be experienced on a big screen within a cinema.

The acclaimed actor, known for his collaborations with Wong Kar-wai and his role in Marvel's "Shang-Chi," also touched upon the evolving mainland Chinese film industry. He noted its progress but suggested a need for looser censorship to foster greater creative diversity.

Leung's latest film, "Silent Friend," involved extensive improvisation and a unique approach to filmmaking, which he found to be "a kind of chaos" but ultimately harmonious. He is currently working on three diverse projects, prioritizing the director's vision above genre or story.