Isabelle Huppert addressed the growing influence of artificial intelligence on the film industry during a press conference at the Busan International Film Festival, asserting that synthetic technology has not yet displaced human performers.
Speaking ahead of the Gala Presentation screening of Marc Fitoussi’s comedy All About Corinne, the French actress joked about rumors that AI might soon generate her dialogue in other languages. “I didn’t know I spoke Korean. I just know how to say ‘annyeonghaseyo’ [hello],” Huppert said, quipping that she had not yet been confronted with the prospect of digital replacement.
When asked if AI was eliminating acting jobs, Huppert maintained that her physical presence remains essential. “It really is me acting. So far I’ve seen that it’s still my face on screen, and I hope that continues,” she stated.
While acknowledging the theoretical threat posed by AI, the actress compared current anxieties to past fears that cinema or vinyl records would become obsolete. Noting that vinyl has actually seen a resurgence, she admitted, “Maybe I’m wrong to be optimistic, I don’t know.”
Huppert also shared news that she will be starring in an upcoming project by legendary director Dario Argento, slated for production next year. Fitoussi, collaborating with Huppert for the fourth time, revealed he is developing a new script inspired by a Joan Crawford film and expressed interest in casting her in a remake.
All About Corinne, which premiered at Locarno, features Huppert as Corinne Maclou, a veteran extra who harbors ambitions of stardom. The film explores her friendship with another actor and includes appearances by Sandrine Kiberlain and others playing themselves. Set for release in South Korea next spring, the story was sparked by Fitoussi’s initial concept of casting one of France’s most prolific actors as someone who never gets to perform.
The director drew upon his 2008 documentary Des Figurants for inspiration, adapting details such as a signature hair tuft from a real-life subject to serve as the protagonist’s calling card. Fitoussi described the characters as typically invisible figures whom he aimed to heroize on screen.
Is she really convinced AI won’t replace us? The technology is advancing faster than ever.
A comedy about a veteran extra sounds wonderful. Huppert is perfect for this type of role.
She jokes about not speaking Korean, but wouldn’t that be a nightmare for any producer?
Vinyl records came back, so surely human actors will too? Here’s hoping her optimism is warranted.
I’m just thrilled she’s making a Dario Argento film! That is a casting dream realized.