“Have to Employ AI,” – Cinematographer Matthew Libatique Defends AI Citing One Big Issue

Published 10/30/2026, 9:41 PM EDT

Logos displayed on smartphones in China - 11 Nov 2023 In this photo illustration, the American comic book publishing company DC Comics logo seen displayed on a smartphone with an Artificial intelligence (AI) chip and symbol in the background. China Copyright: xBudrulxChukrutx xSOPAxImagesx BC_2023StudioAI_3283

Cinematographer Matthew Libatique says he understands why a few members of the entertainment industry might be interested in investing in Artificial Intelligence. AI has divided Hollywood into some supporting the technology while others oppose it or remain unaware. Meanwhile, another group of people in the industry is exploring just how important the technology could become in the future.

One such person is the Iron Man cinematographer, who is well aware of the ongoing debate. While dismissing one of the major concerns surrounding AI and its use in Marvel films, Libatique also pointed out the potential benefits of the technology. He further opened up about how it could have the potential to replace one crucial element.

Matthew Libatique believes AI could replace one thing in Marvel

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In his interview with Variety, Matthew Libatique shared that major studios like Marvel and DC make films that require a lot of VFX work. He added that the cost of producing such films is immense. So, the cinematographer believes that these studios could use the technology to cut costs.

“They make their movies for so much money, I can understand why, through visual effects, they are going to have to employ AI to curb some of their costs,” he said.

Dhaka, Bangladesh- 6. Juli 2026: Marvel-Logo wird auf einem Smartphone gesehen. Dhaka, Bangladesh- 6 July 2026: Marvel logo is seen on a smartphone. (License=RM) Copyright: xZoonar.com MojahidxMottakinx 25331985

While discussing AI’s potential, Libatique also added that he believes Marvel is unlikely to use AI actors. He explained that major studios will need personalities behind their characters to make audiences appreciate and love them. So he believes that AI is unlikely to replace everything in the entertainment industry.

During the interview, he mentioned exploring the technology, revealing that he and director Darren Aronofsky are testing it ahead of filming their next project. Artificial intelligence continues to be one of the most talked-about topics in Hollywood. Meanwhile, some have completely dismissed the technology, like Travis Knight.

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Knight has made his stance clear on the topic. 

Travis Knight says Stop Motion will never use AI

One of the many voices arguing against artificial intelligence is Travis Knight. In his conversation with The Playlist’s Mike DeAngelo for The Discourse podcast interview, Knight assured listeners that his stop-motion studio, LAIKA, would never use any AI tools.  He went on to describe the technology as theft.

"AI is theft. It’s the ingestion of years and years and years of human creativity and ingenuity, regurgitated back. It has no humanity. It has no spirit,” he added.

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Credit: Laika

His company will focus on human-made art. Knight appreciates how advancements in technology have helped people in other areas, but he is not fond of the technology being used in art. Understandably, there are varying opinions on artificial intelligence and the role it could play in the future. 

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What do you think about Matthew Libatique's opinion? Let us know in the comments.

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Pritha Debroy

1418 articles

Pritha Debroy is an Entertainment writer at NetflixJunkie who can seamlessly switch between breaking down an NBA play and obsessing over the latest K-drama twist. She has written over 3,400 NBA and NFL articles, but her true joy lies in diving into Netflix’s trendiest shows—unpacking themes, stories, and yes, the occasional celebrity chaos. When she is not writing, you’ll find her devouring thrillers (anything by Freida McFadden is an instant yes), revisiting comfort classics like 10 Things I Hate About You and 27 Dresses, or hunting for her next binge-worthy series.

Edited By: Aliza Siddiqui

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