Christopher Nolan calls current AI protections “not enough” for directors

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Christopher Nolan, the director of Oppenheimer, has recently become the head of the Director’s Guild of America and is now speaking out about artificial intelligence. He’s advocating for safeguards and wants filmmakers to have a say in how AI is developed and used in the future.

Christopher Nolan is finalizing his new film, The Odyssey, a large-scale adaptation of the classic Homer poem featuring a famous cast.

Nolan now leads the Directors Guild of America and is actively working on important industry concerns like healthcare, retirement plans, fair compensation, and tax benefits.

He talked about how AI is impacting the entertainment industry, including streaming ad strategies, Disney’s partnership with OpenAI, and potential challenges for directors down the line.

Christopher Nolan say director’s need to “have a voice” in AI plans

Christopher Nolan leads the AI committee formed in 2023. The committee is focused on understanding the future of AI, how it impacts directors, and making sure directors are fairly compensated for their work when AI is used.

While we’ve put strong safeguards in place, it’s not enough on its own,” Nolan explained to reporters, according to Deadline. “It’s crucial for creators to have a say in how this technology is used going forward. We also want to help shape the legal rules surrounding it. Although we don’t usually own the copyrights to our work, our livelihoods and ongoing payments depend on those copyrights being properly used to generate revenue.

We regularly talk to these companies to make sure they’re getting the most out of the work we do, as their success also greatly benefits us.

The issue with streaming ads

As streaming services increasingly rely on advertisements, movies and TV shows are now being paused for commercials. Artificial intelligence is starting to determine exactly when these breaks happen and what ads are shown – a development that raises further questions, as Nolan points out.

Artists are once again facing familiar challenges regarding how their work is used on television and other media. Historically, this has been a major concern, and the Guild has consistently advocated for creators. Interestingly, the rise of new technologies is bringing us back to these same issues, mirroring past struggles over rights and compensation.

Throughout my career as a filmmaker, I’ve always been able to deliver movies to audiences without interruptions – whether through VHS, DVD, Blu-ray, or streaming. Now, the introduction of ad-supported streaming is a new challenge. While it might seem like just a business change, it actually has significant implications for creative control.

Nolan addresses Disney’s deal with OpenAI

Nolan also discussed Disney’s new agreement with OpenAI, which will allow AI tools to incorporate Disney characters for the next three years.

Nolan views Disney’s agreement with OpenAI as a good first step because it sets a precedent for licensing. However, he emphasizes that it’s important to understand how this deal will financially benefit the members of all three unions involved, which is currently unclear.

These companies will demonstrate how creatives can benefit from new licensing opportunities once they receive support for the agreements.

If you’re interested in the ongoing discussion about AI, you can find related debates surrounding films and shows like Megalopolis, Late Night With the Devil, Thunderbolts, and True Detective, as well as the series One Piece. Also, look into the work of director Darren Aronofsky and the AI creation known as Tilly Norwood.

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2026-02-03 13:19