Jodie Foster Questions Human Element in Brad Pitt’s ‘F1’, Comparing its Precision to AI

During a recent panel at the Aspen Festival of Ideas titled “Who Owns the Future of Hollywood,” Jodie Foster reflected on the evolving landscape of cinema and the encroaching influence of machine learning. While discussing the intersection of technology and creativity with former Sony Pictures CEO Michael Lynton, Foster jokingly suggested that the Brad Pitt-led film “F1” felt as though it had been generated by artificial intelligence.

“I don’t say this disparagingly—how could I? This movie went on to make millions of dollars,” Foster explained. “But I look at a movie like ‘F1’ and I’m like, ‘F1’ was made by AI. Wasn’t it? I mean, the structure was exactly the structure that you would learn in school. The actors say the lines exactly the way it would be written if a computer was writing exactly what would be the right thing for that time.” She noted that while the production successfully mastered the technology to create a visually stunning spectacle, the narrative felt overly formulaic.

Despite these critiques, “F1” has been a massive commercial and critical success, grossing $634 million worldwide and earning four Oscar nominations, including Best Picture, while winning for Best Sound.

The conversation shifted toward the broader societal and professional impacts of AI. Foster viewed the technology as another significant shift in the industry, similar to the introduction of CGI and digital effects. When Lynton questioned whether AI would eventually replace writers and actors, Foster acknowledged that job displacement is already occurring, particularly with the digital replication of background extras. She emphasized the importance of union protections, suggesting that if a digital likeness is used multiple times, the performer should be compensated accordingly.

Foster believes AI can be an asset when used for “small helpful things” like pre-visualization. She cited a dream-like sequence in her latest film, “My Private Life,” as a successful example of using AI to create surreal imagery. Her ultimate hope is that filmmakers remain in control of the tools. “If we are able to dominate AI consistently over time, we will be able to make things that reflect us, and we can make things better,” she stated.

Variety has contacted Foster, Apple, and screenwriter Ehren Kruger for comment.

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