Don’t Need SRK or Big B, I’ll Create My Own Star Using AI: Shekhar
The world of cinema has undergone a significant transformation in recent years, with the advent of technology playing a crucial role in shaping the industry. Filmmakers are now exploring new ways to create engaging stories, characters, and experiences for their audiences. One such visionary is Shekhar Kapur, a renowned filmmaker known for his iconic films like “Mr. India” and “Elizabeth”. Recently, at WAVES 2025, Kapur spoke about the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in filmmaking, and his bold statement left everyone stunned.
“I don’t need Amitabh Bachchan…[or] Shah Rukh Khan, I’ll create my own character, my own star,” Kapur said, sending shockwaves through the film industry. This statement is not only a testament to Kapur’s confidence in AI technology but also a reflection of the changing landscape of cinema. In an era where digital media has become the norm, filmmakers are no longer limited by traditional casting methods or the availability of big stars.
Kapur’s statement is not entirely new, as filmmakers have been experimenting with AI-generated content for some time now. However, the notion of creating a star using AI is a bold and ambitious one, especially when considering the level of talent and charisma required to captivate audiences. But Kapur believes that AI can help bridge this gap, allowing him to create a character that is not only memorable but also unique.
So, what does this mean for the film industry? For starters, it marks a significant shift in the way filmmakers approach casting. Instead of relying on traditional methods, such as auditions and scouting, AI can help generate characters that are tailored to the specific needs of a project. This approach can not only reduce the time and cost associated with casting but also provide a level of precision that is difficult to achieve with human actors.
Moreover, AI-generated characters can also help filmmakers tackle complex issues, such as representation and diversity. By creating characters that are tailored to specific demographics or cultures, filmmakers can ensure that their stories are more inclusive and representative of the world we live in.
Kapur’s statement has also raised questions about the role of human actors in the film industry. Will AI-generated characters replace traditional actors, or will they complement them? The answer lies in the fact that AI-generated characters will likely be used in specific genres or roles, allowing human actors to focus on more complex and nuanced performances.
Another aspect to consider is the issue of copyright. Kapur mentioned that he can’t copyright Amrish Puri, the iconic actor who played the role of Mogambo in “Mr. India”. However, he can copyright his character, Mogambo. This highlights the importance of intellectual property rights in the film industry and the need for clear guidelines on how AI-generated content will be treated.
In conclusion, Shekhar Kapur’s statement is a bold and exciting development in the world of cinema. While it may take some time to fully understand the implications of AI-generated characters, it is clear that this technology has the potential to revolutionize the film industry. As filmmakers continue to experiment with AI, we can expect to see new and innovative ways to tell stories, create characters, and captivate audiences.
