Tony Leung: AI Will Never Capture Cinema’s Soul

Legendary Hong Kong actor Tony Leung is raising concerns about artificial intelligence in filmmaking, insisting that no algorithm can replicate what makes movies true art.

Speaking at the Shanghai International Film Festival, where he served as president of the Golden Goblet jury, Leung shared his perspective on how technology is reshaping the industry he has called home for decades.

Leung does not dismiss AI outright. He recognizes that the technology can reduce production costs and speed up the filmmaking process. However, he warned that those benefits come with serious risks, including job losses and an influx of formulaic productions.

When asked whether an AI-generated film qualifies as art, the actor offered a clear response.

“There’s no soul,” he said.

For Leung, creativity and human emotion remain essential ingredients of cinema.

The actor also expressed concern about changing viewing habits. He criticized the growing trend of audiences watching films on smartphones instead of in theaters.

Leung believes cinema belongs on the big screen. In his view, watching movies on smaller devices weakens the emotional impact filmmakers work to create.

Despite his concerns, Leung praised the evolution of Chinese cinema. He highlighted how filmmakers have developed a unique storytelling style rooted in local culture.

He also pointed to the growth of animated films and low-budget productions, saying they give creators more freedom to experiment without taking enormous financial risks. At the same time, he suggested that fewer creative restrictions could encourage greater diversity in storytelling.

Leung continues to stay busy. He is currently developing three projects, including a collaboration with director Johnnie To, a streaming series, and a film set in India.

After decades in the industry, the actor no longer chases perfection. Instead, he focuses on authenticity.

“Film is an act of truthfulness,” Leung said, emphasizing that emotional honesty matters more than flawless execution.

As AI continues to transform entertainment, Leung remains confident that human storytellers will always define the heart of cinema.