Steven Soderbergh Teases 'A Lot of AI' in His Upcoming Movies

Director discusses plans to integrate AI into documentary and historical film projects

Apr. 10, 2026 at 6:34am

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An extreme close-up of a luxurious, high-contrast texture such as glittering sequins or shattered disco glass, conceptually representing the glamour and high-fashion aesthetic of the entertainment industry as Soderbergh explores the use of AI in his upcoming projects.Soderbergh's embrace of AI in his filmmaking process highlights the evolving role of technology in the creative arts, raising questions about the future of storytelling and the balance between human creativity and artificial intelligence.Kansas City Today

Acclaimed filmmaker Steven Soderbergh has revealed plans to incorporate artificial intelligence (AI) into several of his upcoming projects, including a documentary about John Lennon and Yoko Ono, as well as a film about the Spanish-American War. Soderbergh sees AI as a tool that can enhance the creative process, though he acknowledges the need for close human supervision. His comments have sparked discussion about the role of technology in the arts and the future of filmmaking.

Why it matters

Soderbergh's embrace of AI in his filmmaking process highlights a broader trend in the industry, where technology is becoming an increasingly integral part of the creative process. This development raises questions about the future of storytelling and the balance between human creativity and artificial intelligence. Soderbergh's approach, which emphasizes the importance of human oversight, offers a thoughtful perspective on the ethical and creative boundaries of AI in the arts.

The details

In an interview with Filmmaker Magazine, Soderbergh revealed that he plans to use AI to create "thematically surreal images" for his upcoming documentary about John Lennon and Yoko Ono. The director explained that AI requires a sophisticated understanding of literature to interpret the couple's philosophical discussions, resulting in a unique visual experience. Soderbergh also mentioned using AI for a film about the Spanish-American War, starring Wagner Moura. The director emphasized the need for close human supervision, indicating that AI is a tool that enhances human creativity rather than replaces it.

  • Soderbergh's comments about using AI in his upcoming projects were made in an interview published on April 10, 2026.

The players

Steven Soderbergh

An acclaimed American filmmaker known for his innovative approach to filmmaking, including the use of new technologies.

John Lennon and Yoko Ono

The famous musician and artist couple whose relationship and philosophical discussions are the subject of Soderbergh's upcoming documentary.

Wagner Moura

A Brazilian actor who will star in Soderbergh's film about the Spanish-American War.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

The takeaway

Soderbergh's use of AI in his upcoming projects is a thought-provoking development that challenges traditional notions of creativity and raises important questions about the future of the film industry. As AI becomes more prevalent, it is essential to consider its impact on the arts and ensure that it enhances human creativity rather than replacing it. Soderbergh's approach serves as a reminder that technology should be a tool to augment human imagination, not a replacement for it.