International film production has experienced a rollercoaster ride of emotions over the past seven days. On the one hand, the red carpet sparkled in Cannes, where the film festival signalled an eagerly awaited upturn for international productions. New films from around the world premiered, raising hopes of a recovery in the industry after the setbacks caused by the pandemic.

At the same time, the film festival was overshadowed by heated debates about the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in film production. The idea of AI-generated scripts and actors polarised the industry. While some emphasised the potential for new narrative forms and creative innovations, others expressed concerns about the loss of authenticity, jobs and the future of artistic expression.

But it was not only the AI discussions that caused unrest. The ongoing strikes by screenwriters and actors in Hollywood cast a long shadow over international film production. The demands for better working conditions, fair pay and an appropriate share of the profits from streaming services could have far-reaching consequences for the entire industry.

Although the international film festival offered a glimmer of hope for the future of film production, the ongoing debates and strikes show that the industry is facing major challenges. The coming weeks and months will be crucial to see how international film production develops in this area of tension.