A new film titled “Putin” is being released in German cinemas today. The film features the Russian President as the main character, brought to life using artificial intelligence (AI). Although played by Polish actor Slawomir Sobala, AI technology is used to give him the face of the real Vladimir Putin. This makes him resemble Putin closely, but not identically. This film is likely to add another dimension to the ongoing debate about the use of AI in art.
The director, Patryk Vega, explained to the Telegraph that audiences needed to see the “real” Putin. He believes that no actor, no matter how talented or well-masked, could play such a globally recognized figure as convincingly. According to a report by a British newspaper, Vega developed the AI technology used in the film during its production. He anticipates that this technology will soon assist filmmakers by requiring only the main and supporting actors, with the rest of the film’s world and minor characters digitally created.
Despite the heavy use of AI, Vega assures that it was merely a tool. The emotional depth and realism of the film were created by humans. He emphasizes that true art stems from human experience, not artificial intelligence.
Early reviews describe the film as an “opulently illustrated biography” of the Russian President. Known for his provocative filmmaking, Vega includes scenes such as Putin lying half-naked in a clinic, shivering in diapers, and later being washed by staff after lying dirty on the floor. The film portrays Putin’s life in a retrospective view from the year 2026. It depicts a president haunted by the ghosts of his past, using wars like those in Chechnya and Ukraine as tools to maintain power.
The film “Putin” is described as a horror movie, not entirely absurd but sometimes disturbingly close to reality. It presents a fictional yet eerily realistic portrayal of Putin’s life and actions, reflecting on his use of power and control.
The use of AI in this film raises questions about the future of filmmaking and the role of technology in art. It challenges traditional methods and opens up possibilities for new storytelling techniques. However, it also prompts discussions about the ethical implications of using AI to recreate real people, especially public figures.
As AI continues to advance, filmmakers and artists are exploring its potential to enhance creativity and storytelling. Yet, there is a need for careful consideration of its impact on authenticity and the human element in art. The film “Putin” serves as a case study in the evolving relationship between technology and creativity, highlighting both the possibilities and challenges of integrating AI into the arts.
The debate around AI in art is not new, but films like “Putin” bring it to the forefront, urging audiences and creators alike to reflect on the balance between innovation and tradition. As the film industry evolves, the integration of AI will likely become more prevalent, shaping the future of cinema and storytelling in ways we are only beginning to understand.
