AI Revolutionizes Bollywood: Filmmakers React to New Era

The Indian film industry, known as Bollywood, is undergoing a significant transformation as artificial intelligence (AI) takes center stage. This development has sparked a mix of concern and enthusiasm among filmmakers and audiences alike. AI’s influence became particularly evident when the 2013 film “Raanjhanaa” was re-released with an altered ending, which shifted from a tragic conclusion to a more optimistic one. The change, made during the film’s dubbing into Tamil, drew sharp criticism from both director Aanand L. Rai and lead actor Dhanush, who expressed distress over what they deemed a violation of creative integrity.

In a statement shared on social media, Dhanush lamented, “This alternate ending has stripped the film of its very soul.” He highlighted his objections prior to the release and referred to the use of AI in modifying films as a troubling precedent for the art of storytelling. Rai echoed these sentiments, asserting that while AI may shape the future, it should not alter the past.

AI’s Growing Role in Indian Cinema

The conversation shifted further when Collective Artists’ Network announced plans for India’s first fully AI-generated feature film, titled “Chiranjeevi Hanuman – The Eternal.” Slated for release in 2026, this project aims to combine ancient mythology with advanced technology, telling the story of the Hindu monkey god Hanuman. Despite the excitement surrounding this venture, skepticism remains prevalent among many industry professionals.

Filmmaker Vikramaditya Motwane commented on social media, “And so, it begins. Who needs writers and directors when it’s ‘Made in AI’?” This sentiment encapsulates the concerns of those who view AI as a threat to traditional filmmaking roles.

The debate reflects a broader divide within the industry. On one hand, proponents of AI argue that it can reduce costs and streamline production by replacing extensive crews and extras, which are hallmarks of Bollywood’s labor-intensive processes. On the other hand, defenders of artistic integrity are wary of the potential erosion of creativity and human expression.

Director Shakun Batra, known for his emotional narratives, has embraced AI in a limited capacity. He has created a five-part short film series utilizing the technology, asserting that while AI can enhance cinematic experiences, it should not replace human creativity. “The best future would be when two skill sets merge,” he emphasized, underscoring the necessity for technology to complement, rather than overshadow, human input.

The Future of Storytelling

Veteran filmmaker Shekhar Kapur, famous for works like “Masoom” and “Elizabeth,” believes that AI cannot replicate the essence of great storytelling. He stated, “The best stories are unpredictable, and AI cannot handle unpredictability.” Kapur posited that AI might only be destructive for filmmakers relying on formulaic approaches, suggesting that the technology could instead serve as a tool to democratize the industry by providing opportunities to those lacking resources.

As AI continues to creep into the heart of filmmaking, Kapur is actively incorporating it into his projects and plans to establish an AI-focused film school in Mumbai‘s Dharavi slum. He envisions a future where AI empowers creators and levels the playing field for independent filmmakers, potentially leading to the emergence of entirely new AI-generated characters and movie stars.

Ultimately, the future of Bollywood will likely be shaped by audience preferences. Rai emphasized the strong support for the original version of “Raanjhanaa,” noting that fan reactions have been more significant than his own. “It is more of their film than mine,” he remarked, highlighting the intrinsic connection between cinema and its viewers.

As Bollywood navigates this pivotal moment, the ongoing dialogue about the role of AI in filmmaking will continue to evolve, reflecting the industry’s adaptability and the diverse perspectives within it.