George Lucas likens AI sceptics to Luddites

Lucas stated that AI tools simplify the moviemaking process, asserting that adoption is inevitable and represents the future. He drew a parallel between current AI skepticism and historical resistance to new technologies, highlighting the perceived irrationality of opposing advancements.

He is not alone among Star Wars directors in his positive outlook. Gareth Edwards, who directed Rogue One: A Star Wars Story and the recent Jurassic World Rebirth, described generative AI as a "fucking genius" tool for filmmakers.

However, the industry is not unified. Prominent figures like Christopher Nolan have observed a significant public rejection of AI, particularly among younger generations who have coined terms like "AI slop." Steven Soderbergh, who has experimented with AI-generated sequences in his documentary John Lennon: The Last Interview, expressed a more measured view, suggesting that the technology's ultimate impact remains uncertain.

Beyond AI, Lucas also shared his views on audience testing and focus groups, which he dislikes. He believes filmmakers should understand the reasons behind audience reactions to characters rather than letting audience feedback dictate the creative process, a sentiment he feels studios often misinterpret.