Cannes Chief Thierry Frémaux Calls Oscars AI Rules Obvious and Names Last Organic Film

At the opening press conference for the 2026 Cannes Film Festival, festival director Thierry Frémaux discussed the film industry, the Academy’s new rules on artificial intelligence, and the evolving landscape of modern filmmaking. His remarks were part of a media session covered by festival reporting from Cannes.

Frémaux addressed the Oscars’ updated guidelines regarding AI in films, stating that the rules felt “obvious.” He took this opportunity to reflect on how filmmaking has transformed since the days of traditional celluloid cinema. He cited Francis Ford Coppola’s Apocalypse Now as a prime example of a more authentic filmmaking style.

He remarked, “The helicopters in the Valkyrie scene were the helicopters Francis Ford Coppola actually had. Today, with digital technology, a filmmaker can say: ‘I have six helicopters — give me 15.’ And then you no longer know what you’re seeing. Even in arthouse films, there are digital effects everywhere now.” He added that this trend creates a “high risk of lies” in contemporary cinema.

Frémaux also referred to Apocalypse Now as “the last organic film” he experienced, highlighting its practical effects, on-location shooting, and physical filmmaking techniques.

Released in 1979, Apocalypse Now, directed by Coppola, is regarded as one of the most significant war films ever made. It is known for its intense production history, large-scale practical sets, and challenging shoot in the Philippines.

The film received critical acclaim upon its release, winning the Palme d’Or at Cannes in 1979, sharing the honor with The Tin Drum. Over the years, it has been celebrated for its visual ambition, psychological depth, and experimental storytelling approach, often being ranked among the greatest films ever made, despite critics debating its chaotic production and controversial themes.

Frémaux’s comments also touched on broader changes in Hollywood, including the rise of streaming platforms, industry restructuring, and recent labor strikes. He noted that cinema has undergone significant transitions before and suggested that current challenges could pave the way for a new creative phase.

Additionally, the Cannes director spoke about the festival’s international significance and confirmed that the 2026 edition will feature a tribute to Peter Jackson and the premiere of The Electric Kiss. The jury will be led by filmmaker Park Chan-wook.

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