‘The Brutalist’ Sparks Controversy Amid Oscar Buzz

As “The Brutalist” gears up for a major night at the 2025 Academy Awards with 10 nominations, the film’s success has been overshadowed by controversy.

Director Brady Corbet recently revealed that AI played a role in the film’s post-production process, igniting debates about the ethics of artificial intelligence in filmmaking. AI technology in film is not new. Movies like “Here,” starring Tom Hanks and Robin Wright, also employed AI. However, “The Brutalist” has become a flashpoint for discussion.

The backlash raises questions about whether AI enhances creativity or undermines the artistry of human filmmakers.

Blaine Brown, VP of Innovation at Diversified, believes AI is transforming the industry but emphasizes the importance of human expertise.

“We’re starting to see GenAI reshape the way people approach content creation, making high-quality production accessible to more creators,” Brown explained to The Blast. “What used to require a full crew and extensive and expensive resources can now be achieved with tools integrated into everyday software. With Hollywood and leading tech companies already embracing these innovations, we’re witnessing a transformation in production that is accessible to creators and businesses of all sizes.”

Despite these advancements, AI remains a polarizing topic in the film world. Many critics worry that its increasing use could diminish authenticity and replace traditional craftsmanship. “The topic of AI’s role in creative work is becoming increasingly polarizing,” he continued.

However, Brown points out that “technological shifts have always caused controversy.”

“For example, ‘Tron’ in 1982 was disqualified from an Academy Award for special effects because the Academy deemed computer-generated imagery ‘cheating,'” he told The Blast. “Over time, however, CGI became a standard practice. For many, the use of AI raises concerns about authenticity and whether GenAI can replicate the human touch.”

Unlike “Here,” where AI was used primarily for de-aging actors, “The Brutalist” leveraged AI for voice cloning to refine the Hungarian accents of its actors. The tool allowed performers to maintain their natural performances while ensuring linguistic accuracy.

“This same technology holds immense potential for enhancing foreign films, making them more natural and accessible to global audiences,” Brown added.

In contrast, “Here” utilized AI-driven visual effects, particularly for de-aging its leads. Instead of traditional CGI, the production team trained AI models using footage from different eras of the actors’ careers, marking a shift toward AI-generated realism in cinematic storytelling.

Critics argue that AI could compromise the human artistry behind cinema, replacing elements of organic creativity with machine-generated efficiency. But Brown pushes back on this concern, explaining that AI has been a silent force in filmmaking for years.

“Today’s critics of AI in filmmaking often overlook how the industry operates,” he noted. “AI has been integrated into filmmaking for years, powering tools like motion capture, crowd simulation, and de-aging technology. Tools like AI, practical effects, and CGI are simply instruments of immersive storytelling, not shortcuts to creativity.”

Brown believes that much of the unease surrounding AI stems from misunderstandings about its function rather than a real threat to artistic integrity.

“Filmmaking has never been about simply pressing buttons; it’s a deeply collaborative process,” he continues. “Art is inherently subjective and flourishes through human input. AI doesn’t replace creativity; it enhances and supports it.”

The industry remains divided on AI’s role in cinematic storytelling. Some see it as an exciting innovation, while others fear it disrupts traditional practices.

“I believe the film industry views AI as both a game-changing opportunity and a disruptive threat,” Brown told The Blast. “While the loudest voices tend to emphasize the risks, my personal belief is that most professionals see it as a powerful tool for innovation, but it needs to be handled responsibly.”

Looking ahead, Brown predicts AI will continue reshaping film production, opening doors for new creative possibilities.

“With Hollywood and leading tech companies already embracing these innovations, we’re witnessing a transformation in production that is accessible to creators and businesses of all sizes,” he stated.

Brown’s personal experience with AI solidifies his belief that embracing new technology is essential for staying ahead.

“I began creating generative imagery three years ago and moved into generative video about two years ago,” he shared. “In 2023, I participated in an AI short film competition where every aspect of the film had to be completed within 48 hours. With over 3,000 entries, I was honored to be a finalist—something that would have been impossible just a year earlier.”

As the technology rapidly evolves, Brown sees AI integration as inevitable.

“The pace of advancement in these tools is exponential, making their integration into creative workflows not just transformative but inevitable,” he concluded. “Those who embrace AI will gain significant advantages over those who resist it, and this applies far beyond the film industry.”