Acclaimed Hong Kong director Peter Chan Ho-sun has drawn a firm line against AI-generated content in feature filmmaking, declaring he will "definitely not" employ AIGC despite exploring other artificial intelligence tools. The veteran auteur made the statement in a recent interview, emphasizing that the traditional two-hour feature film remains resilient amid the rapid rise of vertical dramas optimized for mobile screens.
The remark arrives at a pivotal moment for the global entertainment industry, where streaming platforms and mobile-first creators are increasingly experimenting with vertical aspect ratios to capture dwindling audience attention spans. Peter Chan, 71, boasts a distinguished career spanning classics like Comrades: Almost a Love Story and The Warlords, positioning him as a respected voice in the debate over technology's role in cinema. His stance contrasts with an industry-wide pivot toward AI-assisted production, sparking discussion about artistic integrity versus efficiency.
Variety reported that Chan stated he might incorporate general AI for pre-production or technical assistance, but drew an absolute boundary at AI-generated content, saying, "I will definitely not use AIGC; the soul of a film comes from human experience." Industry analysts suggest his position reflects a generational divide among veteran filmmakers who view narrative depth as inseparable from human authorship, even as younger creators increasingly embrace algorithmic tools.
Looking ahead, Chan's stance may fuel ongoing discourse within Asian and global film communities about the ethical and artistic boundaries of AI integration. As vertical dramas gain traction on platforms like TikTok and YouTube Shorts, the tension between format innovation and traditional storytelling will likely intensify, potentially prompting further statements from established auteurs. Chan also reaffirmed that feature films will survive, suggesting that audience appetite for immersive, long-form narratives remains intact despite shifting consumption habits.