Oscars Race

This year’s Oscars race is one of the most unpredictable yet. Conclave leads the BAFTA nominations with 12 nods, Emilia Perez dazzled at the Golden Globes, and The Substance has emerged as a dark horse, with Demi Moore tipped for Best Actress.

Among the frontrunners is The Brutalist, Brady Corbet’s exploration of architect László Tóth, featuring Adrien Brody in a widely acclaimed performance. However, the film’s use of AI to perfect Brody’s Hungarian dialogue has sparked debate about the role of technology in preserving authenticity in storytelling.

Editor Dávid Jancsó shed light on the decision to use the AI tool Respeecher for one scene. “I am a native Hungarian speaker and I know that it is one of the most difficult languages to learn to pronounce,” he explained. “We coached Adrien and Felicity Jones extensively, and they did an amazing job, but we wanted to ensure even native speakers wouldn’t notice any discrepancies.”

The use of AI in Hollywood has long been a contentious issue, and its role in The Brutalist adds fuel to the fire. Some critics argue that relying on technology undermines the essence of acting, which hinges on authenticity and the dedication of performers. Adrien Brody, who has Hungarian heritage, reportedly worked tirelessly to master his role, raising questions about why AI was needed at all. Shouldn’t verisimilitude have been achieved through casting Hungarian performers?

Others liken AI in cinema to autotune in music: a subtle enhancement that adds polish to genuine talent rather than fabricating it. With AI becoming increasingly sophisticated, its use in film is no longer limited to visual effects or editing. However, its encroachment on performance art raises ethical concerns about transparency and the potential erosion of trust between audiences and creators.

AI’s brief use in The Brutalist highlights industry concerns about its growing role in Hollywood. Transparency will be key to ensuring technology enhances creativity without undermining authenticity.

Ultimately, whether AI is viewed as a valuable tool or an existential threat to artistry, one thing is certain: it’s here to stay. How the film industry adapts to this reality will define its future — and its ability to tell stories that resonate with audiences around the world.