Martin Scorsese is facing sharp criticism from the Art Directors Guild after partnering with artificial intelligence startup Black Forest Labs. The guild accused the legendary filmmaker of “turning his back on human artists” who have helped bring many of his most memorable films to life.
The criticism followed a promotional video for Black Forest Labs, in which Scorsese discussed using generative AI tools to help communicate visual ideas to his creative team. According to the Art Directors Guild, the work Scorsese described is traditionally handled by human artists and designers, including art directors, production designers, illustrators, graphic artists, scenic artists and set designers.
In its statement, the guild argued that promoting generative AI risks bypassing the work of hundreds of human professionals who have long collaborated with directors to visualize films. The group said such tools could undermine the role of artists who help shape the look, mood and visual identity of film productions.
Black Forest Labs recently announced Scorsese as a new adviser, saying the partnership would explore new creative possibilities for filmmakers. Scorsese defended his interest in the technology, saying cinema is still a young medium and filmmakers should remain open to its evolution.
The director also compared AI to earlier technologies he has used in his own films, including 3D filmmaking in Hugo and digital de-aging in The Irishman. He said the new AI tools could help him share what he imagines more clearly and efficiently with collaborators such as production designers, art directors and cinematographers.
However, Scorsese’s comments have intensified an ongoing debate in Hollywood over generative AI and its impact on creative labor. Critics argue that AI tools could weaken opportunities for human artists, while supporters say they can be used as aids in pre-production rather than replacements for creative teams.
Scorsese has also faced criticism from other industry figures. Filmmaker Boots Riley wrote on X that he believed the Taxi Driver director’s involvement with Black Forest Labs was financially motivated, adding another layer to the backlash surrounding the partnership.
For now, the controversy shows how sensitive the use of AI remains in Hollywood, especially when major filmmakers endorse tools that many artists fear could threaten their work and creative rights.