Director Steven Spielberg made his stance on Artificial Intelligence clear during a featured session at SXSW 2026 in Austin. The iconic filmmaker asserted that he has never used AI in his productions, emphasizing that the "soul" of a story belongs to people. According to reports from Y.M.Cinema Magazine and Austin Today, Spielberg told the crowd that human creativity and judgment remain the most vital tools in his cinematic arsenal.

The Amblin Entertainment founder specifically addressed the use of generative technology in the writing process. Spielberg confirmed that his writers' rooms remain 100% human, stating that algorithms cannot replicate the nuances of human emotion or life experience. "AI should not replace creative individuals," Spielberg remarked, according to Canadian Affairs. He argued that while technology can be a tool, it should never supplant the artist.

Steven Spielberg
Steven Spielberg — Photo: Raph_PH / CC BY 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons

The discussion at the Austin Convention Center comes as Hollywood continues to grapple with the ethics of automation in creative fields. Spielberg clarified that he does not oppose technological advancement itself but draws the line at replacing human artistry with software. His comments echo a growing sentiment among industry veterans who prioritize human-led storytelling over automated content generation.