Amid the growing popularity of viral AI-generated videos on social media, artificial intelligence-based filmmaking has become a major topic of discussion. Several filmmakers are experimenting with AI technology to produce movies. However, the future of AI-generated cinema may not be as promising as expected, following the poor box office performance of a recently released fully AI-generated film in China.
The film, titled ‘Sanxingdui: Future Past’, hit theatres in China last week and was reportedly screened across more than 10,000 screens. The release was seen as an important test of audience acceptance of films created entirely using artificial intelligence. However, the movie failed to attract viewers and turned out to be a major box office disappointment.
The film’s performance has once again raised questions about whether AI can replace human creativity and storytelling in the film industry.
AI Films Face Audience Rejection
The development comes amid discussions surrounding Elon Musk’s AI version of ‘The Odyssey’, which also reportedly failed to impress American audiences despite the popularity of the original story.
Meanwhile, the poor performance of ‘Sanxingdui: Future Past’ has triggered mixed discussions on social media. While the commercial failure of an AI-generated movie could be disappointing for investors, many artists and viewers have welcomed the development.
Several social media users expressed the view that AI should remain a supporting tool rather than replace human creativity in filmmaking.
One user commented that it was good to see AI-generated films failing at the box office. Another pointed out that AI might be useful for visualising imagination and creating short entertainment content, but genuine emotional experiences require human connection.
Another user highlighted the importance of real human casting, suggesting that no artificial technology can fully replace the appeal of talented actors.
The film’s disappointing performance suggests that technological innovation alone may not be enough to win audiences. Strong storytelling, emotional depth, human performances and creative direction continue to play an important role in the success of cinema.