Kore-eda ditches AI notes on ‘Sheep in the Box’ script
Kore-eda Hirokazu, a master of nuanced storytelling, recently put his directorial process under the microscope, testing the limits of collaboration between human creativity and artificial intelligence. The experiment culminated in a fascinating decision about the role of inspiration in filmmaking.
For his upcoming Cannes feature, titled Sheep in the Box, Kore-eda didn’t rely on traditional brainstorming. Instead, he took his screenplay and ran it through a generative AI chatbot, inviting the machine to contribute to the narrative structure.
The result, however, was a sharp lesson in artistic discernment. After the AI had offered its input, Kore-eda made a decisive choice: he cut the script. He concluded that the notes generated by a system with no personal history or lived experience concerning cinema were ultimately useless to his vision.
This act highlights a growing debate in the creative world: where does the line blur between algorithmic assistance and genuine artistic authorship? Kore-eda’s move suggests that while AI can generate text and ideas, the essential spark—the deeply personal, contextual knowledge of cinema—remains firmly in the hands of the human artist.
Kore-eda’s work already commands significant respect, further underscoring his authority in the field. He is currently enjoying recognition, including the prestigious Cinema Honorary Award at the Singapore International Film Festival.
Whether through traditional methods or with cutting-edge technology, Kore-eda’s journey remains focused on crafting narratives that resonate with profound human experience, proving that true cinematic genius still requires a distinctly human touch.