Julia Roberts Talks ‘After The Hunt,’ the Challenges of AI, and Reflects on ‘Pretty Woman’: How Times and People Evolve
Julia Roberts Reflects on AI and Cinema Ahead of Golden Globe Nomination
In a recent interview, Julia Roberts expressed her reservations about the potential impact of artificial intelligence on the film industry. Roberts, who is nominated for Best Dramatic Actress at the upcoming Golden Globes for her role in After the Hunt, emphasized that no computer program could emulate the depth and authenticity of human emotion showcased in a performance.
Roberts described her character, Alma, a Yale philosophy professor navigating complex emotional terrain, as a role that rivals her iconic performance in Erin Brockovich. She remarked that the making of After the Hunt allowed her to showcase a mix of quiet ambition and profound emotional depth, a testament to her enduring talent.
Richard Curtis, the screenwriter of Notting Hill, also weighed in on the subject, stating his belief that AI could never replace artists in film. Roberts echoed this sentiment, stating, “I don’t believe it’s possible either… those are not manufacturable.” While acknowledging the benefits of AI in fields like medicine, she expressed concern about its implications within creative industries.
Roberts noted a troubling crossroads for society, stating, “Anytime you find that shortcut for something, at first you go, ‘Oh, this is great.’ But is it?” She reminisced about a moment during the pandemic when she contemplated the future of cinema, revealing her emotional response to the possibility of theaters disappearing: “It’s too heartbreaking for me to believe it could happen.”
Reflecting on the unique communal experience of moviegoing, Roberts highlighted the joy of sharing stories with an audience, countering the rising trend of personal devices overshadowing public interactions. In light of competition among streaming platforms, she expressed hope that audiences would continue to cherish theater experiences.
Roberts’ portrayal in After the Hunt dives into complex themes of cultural clashes and the difficulties within Alma’s marriage to psychologist Frederick, played by Michael Stuhlbarg. The film, directed by Luca Guadagnino, focuses on the tensions arising from a student’s allegations against a faculty member, underscoring the intricacies of social and moral dilemmas.
Roberts praised Guadagnino’s vision, noting his deep understanding of humanity that enriched her performance. “He’s one of the most thoughtful, knowledgeable, deep, passionate people I’ve ever met,” she said, emphasizing how his approach ignited her enthusiasm throughout the filming process.
As the discussion shifted to the intricacies of their characters’ marriage, Roberts reflected on profound conversations she had about the film, particularly one with George Clooney. Her insights into the marriage dynamics resonated well beyond the screen, encapsulating layers of complexity often overlooked in cinematic narratives.
Amidst the film’s thematic weight, Roberts described her collaboration with Stuhlbarg as one filled with mutual comfort and creativity. She recalled their contrasting methods of script engagement, a difference that ultimately enriched their scenes together.
On the broader implications of their storyline, Roberts remarked on how After the Hunt explores themes of accountability and power. “The horror of the modern world right now” was her response to the film’s timeliness in reflecting societal dynamics.
Roberts also discussed her aspiration to return to the stage, a long-held dream she feels more attainable now as her children grow older. She reminisced about her Broadway debut in Three Days of Rain, sharing a yearning to perform in intimate spaces, likening it to a workshop setting.
The actress remains open to further collaborations with Guadagnino, expressing eagerness for upcoming projects and the possibility of exploring characters vastly different from her own personality. Reflecting on her relationships with her co-stars, she shared her admiration for Ayo Edebiri, noting how a pivotal scene in the film cemented their lifelong friendship.
As the conversation wrapped around her classic roles, Roberts reflected on her time filming Notting Hill, admitting her initial skepticism about the project. Yet, her eventual connection to the script showcased her innate understanding of comedy and storytelling.
Through the conversations surrounding her iconic films, Roberts conveyed a profound appreciation for the narratives that have imprinted on her career, touching on the ongoing cultural discussions they inspire. As she navigates the changing landscape of cinema, her optimism remains a constant thread, capturing the essence of storytelling that resonates across generations.
