Legendary director Robert Zemeckis is addressing the backlash surrounding his latest film, Here, which utilizes AI technology to de-age stars Tom Hanks and Robin Wright. Despite his reputation for pioneering visual effects in films like Back to the Future and Forrest Gump, Zemeckis has found himself at the center of controversy, with critics labeling the film as “soulless” and “a meandering bore.”
In an interview with The Independent, Zemeckis reflected on his decades-long career, his relationship with criticism, and how new technology is shaping Hollywood.
Facing the Critics: ‘It’s Its Own Thing’
When asked about the harsh reviews Herehas received, Zemeckis acknowledged the importance of learning from feedback but also stood by his creative choices.
“Sometimes you learn from the criticism,” he said. “Sometimes, it’s completely unfounded. Everybody does the best they can with the tools they have. Criticism… is its own thing.”
Zemeckis is no stranger to negative reception. His 2004 film The Polar Express was panned for its use of motion capture, with critics coining the term “uncanny valley” to describe the film’s eerie, not-quite-human characters. However, the film became a holiday staple, grossing $318 million worldwide.
Reuniting With Tom Hanks and Robin Wright
Here marks a reunion for Zemeckis, Hanks, and Wright, who last worked together on the Oscar-winning Forrest Gump (1994). The film, adapted from Richard McGuire’s graphic novel, spans centuries of stories tied to a single location in Pennsylvania.
Hanks and Wright play a couple navigating love, marriage, and family struggles over time. The film’s episodic narrative reflects Zemeckis’s recurring themes of nostalgia, family, isolation, and loneliness.
Zemeckis praised his cast, saying, “What stays with me on this film is working with the beautiful cast. That’s going to stay with me for the rest of my life.”
AI De-Aging: A Controversial Choice
One of the film’s most discussed elements is its use of AI-generated de-aging technology from Metaphysic, allowing Hanks and Wright to portray younger versions of their characters.
The decision drew criticism for creating unnatural visuals, with Variety remarking that “the results look anything but natural.”
Zemeckis defended his use of AI, stating, “I use it to create digital makeup. That’s what I use it for.” He also commented on the rapid evolution of technology in filmmaking:
“What I learnt from making a movie about the future is that we always underestimate it when we try to predict it.”
Robert Zemeckis used artificial intelligence to de-age Tom Hanks in his new movie “Here.” He predicts the rise of a “completely digital” AI-assisted category of film, but says the human touch remains essential. #robertzemeckis#AI#filmmaking
The topic of AI is particularly contentious following the 2023 Sag-Aftra strikes, during which actors expressed concerns about studios using AI to replicate their likenesses without consent.
While Zemeckis avoided making bold statements about AI’s future, he acknowledged its growing presence in the industry.
“There’s many things that AI is going to do that we can’t think of,” he said. “I wouldn’t be able to figure that out at all.”
Pushing the Cinematic Envelope
Zemeckis has long been known for pushing technical boundaries. From the live-action/animation hybrid in Who Framed Roger Rabbit (1988) to one-man survival tale Cast Away (2000), he has constantly explored new ways to tell stories.
With Here, he attempted a single-shot aesthetic, keeping the camera fixed in one location while the narrative jumps through time. The director described it as a “hugely challenging assignment” due to the meticulous pre-production required.
“Every single scene in the movie must work within this one singular view,” he explained.
As Here prepares for its international release on 17 January, Zemeckis hinted at potential future projects, including a return to the beloved Back to the Future universe.
Despite previously resisting the idea of more sequels, he expressed interest in adapting the Broadway musical version of Back to the Future for the screen.
“It would be intriguing to see him revisit that world,” he mused.
Final Thoughts: ‘Life Is Too Short’
Reflecting on his career and the themes of Here, Zemeckis concluded with a note of gratitude:
“Life is definitely too short, but I’m very grateful that I’ve been able to do what I’ve wanted to do.”
As the film industry continues to grapple with the implications of AI, Zemeckis remains at the forefront, navigating the intersection of innovation and storytelling in his unique, heartfelt way.
Here opens in cinemas on 17 January 2025.
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Here marks a reunion for Zemeckis, Hanks, and Wright, who last worked together on the Oscar-winning Forrest Gump (1994). The film, adapted from Richard McGuire’s graphic novel, spans centuries of stories tied to a single location in Pennsylvania.
Hanks and Wright play a couple navigating love, marriage, and family struggles over time. The film’s episodic narrative reflects Zemeckis’s recurring themes of nostalgia, family, isolation, and loneliness.
Zemeckis praised his cast, saying, “What stays with me on this film is working with the beautiful cast. That’s going to stay with me for the rest of my life.”
