AMP Article

Martin Scorsese criticised for ‘turning his back on human artists’

Published June 11, 2026 · Updated June 11, 2026 · By Sarah Miller

Martin Scorsese Criticised for ‘Turning His Back on Human Artists’

The Endorsement of Generative AI

Martin Scorsese criticised for turning his back - Legendary filmmaker Martin Scorsese has sparked debate within the industry after his recent advocacy for generative artificial intelligence. The 83-year-old director, known for masterpieces like Goodfellas and Taxi Driver, has taken a role as an advisor for Black Forest Labs, a company that develops image-generation software. This partnership has drawn sharp criticism, as some peers view his support for AI as a shift away from traditional artistic methods.

Scorsese expressed his enthusiasm for the integration of AI in creative processes during promotional materials for the company. He emphasized the potential of technology to reshape storytelling, stating that cinema—a relatively young medium at just 125 years old—must evolve to embrace new tools. ‘We have to be open to how it can evolve,’ he remarked, highlighting his belief in innovation as a driving force for artistic progress.

Guild's Response to Scorsese's Stance

The Art Directors Guild (ADG) has issued a pointed critique of Scorsese’s position, accusing him of undermining human creators. In an open letter, the guild declared: ‘Mr. Scorsese, The Business is not in flux.’ This phrase, referencing Black Forest Labs’ FLUX AI system, underscores their argument that the director’s endorsement threatens the established roles of artists and designers.

‘Oscar-winning director Martin Scorsese is turning his back on the human artists who throughout his career have helped him create his most memorable works.’

The guild’s statement accuses Scorsese of prioritizing AI over the contributions of professionals in fields such as graphic design, set construction, and illustration. They pointed to his recent Black Forest Labs video, where he asked, ‘How do you communicate what you see in your head to your cast and crew?’ and suggested that generative AI could provide a solution. This, they argue, sidelines the expertise of human collaborators who have been central to cinematic storytelling for decades.

Controversy Over AI’s Role in Creativity

The use of generative AI has ignited fierce discussions across creative sectors, from film to music. While some see it as a revolutionary tool, others fear it could replace human ingenuity. The Art Directors Guild, specifically Local 800, has been vocal about the issue, asserting that AI’s reliance on vast data sets may compromise originality and fairness.

According to the guild, generative AI systems like FLUX operate by consuming copyrighted works, often without proper acknowledgment or compensation. This process, they claim, mimics human creativity but does so by leveraging content ‘likely scraped from the internet without consent, credit, or transparency.’ Such practices have fueled concerns about intellectual property rights and the value of human labor in the digital age.

Academy’s Stance on AI-Generated Content

This debate has reached the highest levels of the film industry, with the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences recently making a significant decision. Earlier this year, it confirmed that films utilizing generative technology for acting or writing would not qualify for award eligibility. This move reflects growing unease about the impact of AI on the traditional framework of filmmaking.

Scorsese’s endorsement has been seen as a catalyst for this divide. The Art Directors Guild argues that his support for AI could lead to the displacement of talented professionals, particularly those in design and visual arts. They stress that human artists bring a unique perspective and craftsmanship that machines cannot replicate, despite their ability to generate content rapidly.

Other Filmmakers’ Perspectives

Not all directors share Scorsese’s enthusiasm for AI. Steven Spielberg, a longtime advocate for innovation, has described the technology as a ‘tool in a large tool chest.’ While acknowledging its potential to streamline processes, he insists that AI should not replace human judgment. ‘It could save us a lot of legwork,’ he said, ‘but it should never have the final word on anything creative.’

In contrast, Guillermo Del Toro—a director celebrated for his dedication to practical effects—has taken a more cautious approach. He stated he would ‘rather die’ than rely on AI for his projects, emphasizing the irreplaceable value of human creativity in crafting visual narratives. These differing opinions highlight the ongoing struggle to balance technological advancement with artistic tradition.

Reactions from Industry Insiders

Scorsese’s stance has also drawn personal critiques from those directly affected by AI’s rise. Karla Ortiz, an art department veteran who worked on films such as Avengers: Endgame and Black Panther, took to social media to voice her concerns. She wrote: ‘He throws every single storyboard artist he’s ever worked with under the bus, as he demolishes their livelihoods with models that are likely trained on those storyboard artists’ same works. To use his legacy and power for this is just so disgusting.’

Such criticisms reflect a broader anxiety about the automation of creative tasks. While AI can assist in generating visuals or scripts, many artists worry it diminishes their role in the filmmaking process. The Art Directors Guild’s letter underscores this fear, warning that AI’s reliance on existing work may erode the collaborative spirit that defines cinema.

The Future of Artistic Collaboration

As the industry grapples with the implications of AI, questions arise about the future of artistic collaboration. Will human artists continue to play a vital role, or will their contributions be increasingly sidelined by algorithms? The guild maintains that the skills of local 800 members are essential for delivering the highest quality in film production. They argue that AI, while efficient, lacks the depth and nuance of human creativity.

Scorsese’s endorsement highlights the tension between innovation and tradition in filmmaking. While he champions AI as a means to enhance storytelling, others see it as a threat to the collaborative nature of the craft. This divide is not just about technology—it’s about the legacy of human artistry and the future of creative work in an increasingly automated world.

As the debate continues, the role of AI in cinema remains a contentious issue. Whether it serves as a tool for empowerment or a force of displacement depends on how it is integrated into the creative process. For now, Scorsese’s support for generative AI has sparked a vital conversation about the balance between technological progress and artistic integrity.

Martin Scorsese criticised for ‘turning his back on human artists’