Legendary filmmaker Steven Spielberg has made headlines at the SXSW conference in Austin, Texas, by firmly stating his position against the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in creative endeavors. Spielberg has imagined complex, technologically driven worlds in each of his recent films Minority Report, Ready Player One and A.I. Artificial Intelligence. He is quick to point out, he’s never made AI part of his filmmaking process.
In a wide-ranging interview at SXSW 2026, Spielberg discussed the surprising ramifications of AI technology on the film industry during this ongoing debate. That passion carries beyond his organization, as he firmly believes AI can and should be beneficial across many sectors. It must never supplant the magic of human creativity, particularly in the written word. Spielberg clarified his stance by stating, “I am not for AI if it replaces a creative individual.”
The acclaimed director, known for blockbuster hits like “Jaws,” “E.T.,” “Close Encounters of the Third Kind,” and “Raiders of the Lost Ark,” reiterated that he does not employ AI in his writers’ rooms or in television projects. This decision underscores the depth of his dedication to the preservation of the creative and social integrity of human storytelling.
Spielberg’s hesitance to incorporate AI in his creations underscores a key concern for artists. For many of them, their apprehension over AI’s influence centers on its effect on creative fields. He firmly believes that relying on machine-generated content could undermine the artistry and emotional depth that human writers bring to their stories.
In his introductory remarks, Spielberg explicitly recognized that he was uniquely positioned to make films that highlight technology for good and for ill. His films explore the thorny relationship between man and progress. They encourage audiences to consider the ethical implications of these innovations.
“I’ve never used AI on any of my films yet.” – Steven Spielberg