Martin Scorsese, 83, has become an adviser and partner to AI start-up Black Forest Labs, which specializes in image generation for the film industry [1, 2, 3]. He has used their AI technology in the pre-production phase of a new film to create instant storyboards that depict characters, locations, and scenes, speeding up visualization and collaboration with his creative team [1, 2, 3].

"I'm interested in the intersection of technology and storytelling, and seeing how that can push the bounds of creativity to create deeper and richer experiences for audiences," Scorsese said, adding that cinema is still a young medium about 125 years old and must remain open to evolution [2]. He pointed to his prior embrace of technology in film, referencing 3D in Hugo (2011) and de-aging effects in The Irishman (2019) as examples [1].

Hollywood initially reacted negatively to generative AI when it became widely accessible in 2022, fueling fears of job losses and unauthorized use of creative work. This led to strikes in 2023 involving over 170,000 workers demanding protections against AI tools [2, 3]. However, industry attitudes have recently shifted. Notable figures like Demi Moore and Robert De Niro have publicly embraced AI-generated content at film festivals. Moore called cooperation with AI "a more valuable path to take" amidst inevitable changes [2, 3]. Jane Rosenthal described Scorsese's endorsement as "a powerful example of how emerging technologies like A.I. can be used not simply as tools of innovation, but as vehicles for deeply human storytelling" [3].

Some storyboard artists have strongly criticized Scorsese's use of AI. Artist Karla Ortiz accused him of "throwing every single storyboard artist he's ever worked with under the bus," claiming the AI models were likely trained on their work without permission, harming their livelihoods [1].

Scorsese publicly endorsed AI use in filmmaking in a statement and video released on June 2, 2026, calling it a tool for greater creative freedom and clearer communication during pre-production [2, 3]. He continues to explore how AI can push the boundaries of cinematic storytelling while collaborating with Black Forest Labs.

His next scheduled public appearance discussing AI in film is expected at an industry panel later this year, where he will share further insights on integrating emerging technologies in creative workflows.