The Brutalist AI Controversy, Explained

'The Brutalist' tells the story of László Tóth, a Hungarian-Jewish architect who survived the Holocaust (played by the amazing Adrien Brody). The movie was doing great, even snagging three Golden Globes! But then...dramatic pause...people found out the filmmakers used AI to help with some parts of the film.

What's the big deal, you may ask. Well, the movie team used AI to help actors nail those tricky Hungarian accents and to create some of the building designs. Some people think this is totally fine – after all, we use CGI, we use digital cameras, we use all sorts of technology to make movies, right? Why should AI get a different treatment?

Can the Use of AI Really Cost The Brutalist Its Oscar?

But others feel that the movie should be excluded from the Oscar race, arguing that content created by artificial intelligence violates the artistic integrity of filmmaking. After all, the human element in cinema is the most valuable thing. I mean, this is why people are watching movies in the first place.

The use of artificial intelligence in the film industry has been controversial, but it should not be a barrier to enhancing small details that cannot be achieved due to budget or time constraints. AI was used to enhance the actors' accents, but artists should really keep the characters authentic.

Speaking to Red Shark, Jancsó shared his thoughts on the language challenges.

“I am a native Hungarian speaker and I know that it is one of the most difficult languages to learn to pronounce. They [actors] did a fabulous job but we also wanted to perfect it so that not even locals will spot any difference,” the director explained.

The controversy surrounding the use of artificial intelligence in Brutalist is expected to affect the film's Oscar chances, as the film's theme of creative integrity comes into conflict with the use of AI. Besides, many fans seem to think that it’s “lazy” to use AI even in the little things.

“Even for the dialogue it's lazy. There are actors who practice for months to hit their accents and that's what makes it so impressive, even if they're slightly off. If they can't get it then the scene needs to be re-written. This sets a bad precedent,” Redditor HereOnCompanyTime said.

Another fan agreed, noting that AI-perfected performances just don’t feel right on Oscars shortlists.

“Especially since Adrian Brody is a serious best actor contender. I don’t think you should be able to use AI to make a performance that’s better than what the actor actually gave, and then put that performance up for awards consideration,” said Redditor Ok_Call5165.

Is The Brutalist Worth Watching?

For those still interested in watching the film and forming their own opinions (and let's be honest, who isn't curious now?), The Brutalist is set for a digital streaming release in late February 2025. Talk about perfect timing–right when everyone's getting ready for the Oscars!

By the way, this whole situation has gotten everyone talking about something super important: how much should we let computers help us make art? One thing's for sure: this year's Oscar season just got way more interesting!