Nicolas Cage Urges Young Actors to Resist AI Manipulation of Performances

Nicolas Cage addressed a crowd at the 25th Newport Beach Film Festival on Sunday, warning young actors against the pressures of studios using artificial intelligence to manipulate their performances. Speaking before receiving the Icon Award at the Honors Brunch, Cage stressed the importance of authentic, heartfelt acting.

“Film performance is a handmade, organic process,” he said, highlighting the creativity and detail that go into each role. He brought attention to a new technology called Employment-Based Digital Replica (EBDR), which allows studios to alter an actor’s appearance, voice, and delivery after filming.

Cage explained that EBDR is part of a recent agreement between SAG-AFTRA and studios, aimed at protecting actors while also allowing for some digital modifications. However, he cautioned that it risks undermining the genuine artistry of performance. “We are the instruments as film actors,” he remarked, urging his peers to carefully consider any contracts that allow studios to use EBDR.

He also referenced his cameo in the 2023 film The Flash as an example of how EBDR works. Cage passionately encouraged young performers to safeguard their creativity, reminding them that their voice, face, body, and imagination are integral to their art.

Cage has been vocal about his concerns regarding AI in Hollywood. In a July interview, he expressed fears about the future of artistic integrity and what might happen to his likeness after he passes away. “I don’t want anyone to do anything with it,” he stated, emphasizing the need to protect the heart of performance.