During the Cannes Film Festival, actor and filmmaker Seth Rogen vocally criticized the use of artificial intelligence in crafting screenplays, asserting that reliance on such technology indicates a fundamental misunderstanding of the writing profession. He highlighted his belief that genuine creative output necessitates human engagement, a principle evident in his latest hand-drawn animated feature, which explores the complexities of Alzheimer's disease, a theme deeply personal to his co-producer and wife, Miller Rogen.

Seth Rogen Champions Human Creativity at Cannes, Rejects AI in Filmmaking

At the prestigious Cannes Film Festival, held on May 16, 2026, acclaimed personality Seth Rogen made headlines with his unequivocal remarks regarding the role of artificial intelligence in film. Speaking to Brut, Rogen declared that aspiring writers who leverage AI for script creation are, in his view, missing the essence of what it means to be a writer. He articulated a strong conviction that the creative journey, with its inherent challenges and processes, is indispensable. According to Rogen, any tool designed to diminish the writer's effort fundamentally detracts from the craft itself, making such advancements unappealing to those who cherish the act of writing.

Rogen was at the festival to promote his animated film, 'Tangles,' a project that delves into the sensitive subject of a young woman coping with her mother's Alzheimer's diagnosis. The interviewer noted the absence of AI in the film's production, to which Rogen proudly responded, emphasizing that 'Tangles' employs traditional hand-drawn animation, ensuring every frame is imbued with a distinct human touch. This commitment to human artistry extends to the film's narrative roots. Producer Miller Rogen, Seth's wife, shared with Variety her personal connection to the film's protagonist, an illustrator named Sarah, whose story mirrors her own family's experience with Alzheimer's. Both their mothers, teachers by profession, received diagnoses in their early fifties. Miller Rogen identified strongly with the feelings of denial, fear, and isolation often accompanying a dementia diagnosis, illustrating the profound human element woven into the fabric of 'Tangles.'

Rogen's comments serve as a poignant reminder of the enduring value of human creativity and the artistic process in an age increasingly influenced by technological advancements. His firm stance encourages a deeper appreciation for the nuanced and deeply personal journey of storytelling, advocating for the irreplaceable human touch in the arts.