Spanish actor Antonio Banderas has raised concerns about the transformative effects of artificial intelligence (AI) on the film industry, particularly in Hollywood, which he refers to as a 'factory' of cinema. At a recent event in Málaga, he revealed that he has been approached with a script featuring AI-generated likenesses of himself, complete with his voice, in a role akin to Hernán Cortés. This experience left him astonished, as it exemplifies the rapid advancements in AI technology and its capability to reproduce human likenesses and voices with startling realism.

Banderas further elaborated on the economic implications of AI in filmmaking, suggesting that production companies will tend to choose AI-generated actors over living performers due to cost-effectiveness. He speculated that audiences may soon see movies featuring digital recreations of legendary actors such as Marilyn Monroe, Humphrey Bogart, and James Dean, all made possible by AI technologies. This shift could redefine not just the creative aspects of filmmaking but also the business model if decision-makers prioritize budget cuts over traditional actor engagements.

Despite these sweeping changes, Banderas expressed a belief that theater would remain insulated from the impact of AI advancements, emphasizing the irreplaceable nature of live performance. He reiterated that performing arts will always demand human presence and emotion, a value that AI cannot replicate. This perspective highlights an important debate within the entertainment industry about the balance between technological innovation and preserving human artistry in creative fields.