'Won't take over human emotions': 'Boong' producers talk about AI
28 Feb 2026

As the debate over artificial intelligence (AI) intensifies, Shujaat Saudagar and Vikesh Bhutani, the co-producers of Boong, have shared their views on the issue.

The movie recently won the Best Children's and Family Film award at BAFTA 2026.

In an interview with Variety India, they spoke about whether AI can ever replace human creativity in cinema.

Saudagar says 'AI is definitely going to be helpful'
AI's role

Saudagar believes that while AI won't replace human creativity, it could be a useful tool in filmmaking.

He quoted director Guillermo del Toro saying, "f*** AI," but added, "AI is definitely going to be helpful as an engine to support filmmaking."

He expressed confidence that AI won't overshadow human storytelling and emotions.

"I personally am quite hopeful that AI is not going to take over human nuances, human emotions."

"You will still need humans to keep telling these stories."

Saudagar says 'AI cannot feel'
Technological perspective

Saudagar views AI as a part of the ongoing technological evolution in filmmaking, not a threat.

"We have already been doing this with VFX... Nobody said the people sitting behind computer screens were going to take over the world and leave us jobless."

"Yes, it feels more dramatic because the technology is improving so fast. And there is some phenomenal stuff happening."

However, he added, "(AI) cannot feel. And whoever is prompting that feeling needs to understand it deeply."

Bhutani humorously suggests farming as alternative career
Human touch

Bhutani echoed Saudagar's sentiments, saying that AI should complement filmmaking.

He humorously suggested, "Listen, I am personally ready to become a farmer. I do not mind going back to my roots.

"But honestly, with every technological revolution, humans have felt threatened...But we have always found a way to co-exist."

"Change is always seen as bad initially until it becomes part and parcel of our lives."

Meanwhile, Boong will re-release in India on March 6.