Steven Spielberg says he’s ‘never used AI’ in any of his films

Renowned director Steven Spielberg has voiced his concerns regarding the incorporation of artificial intelligence in creative fields during a recent interview at the SXSW conference in Austin. When asked about the role of AI in filmmaking, Spielberg revealed, "I’ve never used AI on any of my films yet," prompting an enthusiastic response from the audience, which erupted in cheers and applause. Although Spielberg is not fundamentally opposed to technology, as evidenced by his iconic films that explore technological themes such as "Minority Report" and "Ready Player One," he emphasized the importance of human creativity. At SXSW 2026, he clarified that while he appreciates AI in various sectors, he firmly believes that creativity should not be outsourced to machines. "In my writers’ rooms, even for television, there’s not an empty chair with a laptop in front of it," he stated, reinforcing his commitment to maintaining a human touch in storytelling. As one of the film industry's most influential figures, Spielberg's stance is significant, particularly amidst a growing trend where AI is becoming more prevalent in filmmaking. While some major streaming platforms are exploring AI applications—like Amazon, which is testing AI tools for production, and Netflix, which recently acquired Ben Affleck’s AI filmmaking venture for approximately $600 million—Spielberg remains dedicated to preserving the integrity of creative work.