Across YouTube, TikTok and other digital platforms, AI‑generated short films are appearing in huge numbers. They attract massive viewership and generate significant advertising and subscription income.

These AI shorts are cheap, accessible and easy to produce, a situation similar to the rapid growth of AI‑generated music.

Dr. Bui Nhu Lai, Meritorious Artist and rector of Hanoi Academy of Theatre and Cinema, says the AI films may be visually striking, but they completely lack emotional value – the life‑giving element of art.

Director Dang Thai Huyen explains that he values the interaction with real actors, because a glance or a reaction can spark new creative ideas. He does not believe AI actors can provide that inspiration, and he wants to keep artistic control over his work.

Meritorious Artist Ho Phong adds that AI films lack depth and their actors have no "soul." He notes that while the visuals can be impressive, the lack of genuine inner life makes it hard to feel real intimacy.

The cinema history shows similar patterns. The 3D craze and later 5D attractions were once popular, yet the industry eventually returned to core artistic values. Films shot on traditional 35 mm or 70 mm still win the most prestigious artistic awards.

Most filmmakers agree that AI can be a useful tool to support creativity, but it should not replace human performers or the director’s artistic judgment. The human touch remains essential for true emotional impact.