[CBC News] Filmmaker Steven Spielberg said that, despite the rise of streaming, the theatrical experience still holds a unique and irreplaceable value.
The Los Angeles Times reported on the 14th (local time) that Spielberg told the SXSW audience in Austin the day before, \"The true film experience is realized when strangers gather together in a dark room.\"
He emphasized that he did not mean to disparage streaming services and noted past collaborations with Netflix, but added, \"Nothing replaces the moment after a great film when the audience shares emotions and leaves the theater together.\"
Spielberg also argued that live performing arts — concerts, ballet and opera — offer the same collective experience, and he appeared to take a veiled aim at Timothée Chalamet following the actor's recent remarks that dismissed ballet and opera. \"I hope those experiences continue,\" he said.
On the subject of artificial intelligence, Spielberg struck a cautious tone. He said he supports AI's role across many fields but opposes using it to replace creative individuals. \"I've never used AI on my films,\" he added.
He cited directors he admires — David Lean, Billy Wilder, Paul Thomas Anderson and Christopher Nolan — praising creators who are always producing new work.
Spielberg is due to release the sci‑fi thriller Disclosure Day, about an alien invasion, this June. The director, who famously made E.T., said, \"We shouldn't assume we're the only intelligent civilization in the universe. I've believed since I was a child that humanity is not alone.\"
★ Vote in the Netizen Awards ▶
★ Breaking News - CBC News on Telegram ▶
▮ CBC News | CBCNEWS reporter Ha Young-su
