The film industry has always evolved with technological advancements, and now, with the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI), the landscape is poised for even greater transformation. In an exclusive interview, actress Michelle Rodriguez shared her thoughts on what the future holds for cinema, reflecting on how AI will reshape filmmaking in the coming years.
Rodriguez, best known for her iconic role as Letty Ortiz in the Fast & Furious franchise, was in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, for the 4th edition of the Red Sea International Film Festival, which took place from December 5 to December 14. The festival brought together international filmmakers, fans, and industry experts, offering a platform for shared insights and discussions on the future of film.
The 46-year-old actress, who has also starred in Resident Evil, Blue Crush, and S.W.A.T., expressed excitement about the potential for AI in the film industry. “I see a lot of technology being used. I see it getting really cheap for people to make science fiction movies,” Rodriguez said. As the industry becomes more reliant on cutting-edge tools like AI, she believes it will democratize the filmmaking process, allowing more creators to bring their imaginative visions to life at a fraction of the cost.
When reflecting on her career, Rodriguez shared that one of her greatest highlights was working with renowned director James Cameron. “I love him. He’s one of my favourite directors in the world. He takes deep, precious, and important topics and learns how to translate them into a language that is entertaining, and that the world wants to see,” she said. Rodriguez acknowledged the challenge of making meaningful films that are both thought-provoking and entertaining. “Most people, when they try to say something important, they make a two-hour movie that makes you depressed. So, it’s tough to be able to make a good film that has meaning,” she explained.
Reflecting on her experience at the Red Sea International Film Festival, Rodriguez expressed her enthusiasm for the energy and passion of the younger generation of filmmakers. “I love how curious and young everybody is. It’s like everyone is hungry to do something cool and learn,” she said, highlighting the festival’s vibrant atmosphere and the collective desire to push the boundaries of cinema. As the film industry continues to evolve, it’s clear that Rodriguez is excited about the opportunities ahead, particularly with the integration of AI and new technologies.
