Cruise Defends Theatrical Craft Against AI at BAFTA, Teases 'Digger' Transformation

Key points

• Cruise acknowledged AI is 'coming and it's going to happen' but emphasized that people want to see 'real things' on screen.
• He argued that the theatrical experience is a distinct art form that brings people together, unlike streaming.
• Cruise pointed to the summer box office, which grossed $4.76 billion from May 1 to Labor Day, as evidence of enduring audience demand for human stories.
• He urged industry creatives to 'keep creating' despite technological advancements.
• Cruise teased his upcoming film 'Digger,' directed by Alejandro G. Iñárritu, noting he wears a fat suit and prosthetics that take six hours to apply.
• He described 'Digger' as the most original and moving film he has read, with a release date of October 2 via Warner Bros.

Background

Cruise has recently expressed strong support for the Paramount-Warner Bros. merger, predicting a 30-film annual slate. He previously discussed 'Digger' on The Tonight Show, where he also shared a lighthearted moment with Taylor Swift regarding football.

Why it matters

Cruise's comments highlight a tension in the industry between technological disruption and traditional craftsmanship. His reliance on box office data to argue for the viability of live theatrical experiences provides a counter-narrative to concerns about AI replacing human performance.

What to watch

The film 'Digger' is scheduled to hit theaters on October 2. The Paramount-Warner Bros. merger remains a focal point for industry consolidation, with Cruise advocating for increased production output.