‘The Brutalist’ reignites debate over AI’s role in Hollywood
Artificial intelligence is transforming Hollywood, from music studios to writers’ rooms. Now, “The Brutalist” is fueling debates about its role in filmmaking.
The film tells the story of a Hungarian Jewish Holocaust survivor who immigrated to the U.S. in 1947. It has earned major awards, including Best Drama Motion Picture and Best Director Motion Picture at this year’s Golden Globes.
Despite its success, some question the authenticity of the film. A film editor revealed to Red Shark News that AI tools were used in post-production to refine Hungarian accents.
Respeecher, an AI tool from Ukraine, helped adjust Adrien Brody and Felicity Jones’ accents. The actors recorded their lines, which the software enhanced to sound closer to a native speaker.
Hungarian film editor Dávid Jancsó supported the choice, saying, “I am a native Hungarian speaker, and it’s one of the most difficult languages to learn to pronounce. Even with Adrien’s Hungarian background, it’s not that simple.”
AI in film sparks controvery
Critics and social media users have questioned the film’s use of AI. One user wrote, “Don’t think it’s too reactionary to say this movie should lose the Academy buzz it’s getting.”
Some argue AI undermines the authenticity of performances, sparking debates about its place in storytelling.
Director defends decision
Director Brady Corbet defended the move, explaining that AI was used to enhance, not replace. “No English language was changed,” Corbet told Variety. “The aim was to preserve the authenticity of Adrien and Felicity’s performances in another language, not to replace or alter them.”
Respeecher has also worked on Disney’s “Obi-Wan Kenobi” series. The AI recreated Darth Vader’s voice after James Earl Jones retired from the role.
Jones signed an agreement before his passing, giving Disney and Respeecher rights to his voice. The move allowed Disney to preserve his iconic sound for future Star Wars projects.
AI tools like Respeecher are changing filmmaking. Many studios now use AI for voice modulation and visual effects.
While some see it as a breakthrough, others fear it will replace human talent. Critics worry AI may erase the creativity and authenticity that make films unique. The debate over AI in Hollywood continues to grow as technology advances.
Trump calls on Voight, Stallone and Gibson for Hollywood revamp
President-elect Donald Trump has announced a new approach to Hollywood. He is appointing three well-known actors to serve as his “eyes and ears” in the entertainment industry.
Trump introduced Jon Voight, Mel Gibson and Sylvester Stallone as part of his team. He believes these industry veterans can help address what he describes as a “troubled place.”
In a Truth Social post Thursday, Jan. 16, Trump said in part, “They will serve as Special Envoys to me for the purpose of bringing Hollywood, which has lost much business over the last four years to Foreign Countries, BACK—BIGGER, BETTER, AND STRONGER THAN EVER BEFORE!”
The exact roles of the trio remain unclear. However, all three actors have previously expressed public support for Trump.
Voight has been one of Trump’s most outspoken advocates in Hollywood. In a 2019 video, Voight said, “I know you will agree with me when I say our president has our utmost respect and our love.”
Voight’s loyalty to Trump was also recognized when the president awarded him the National Medal of Arts in 2019.
Stallone has also demonstrated support for Trump. Recently, he attended the America First Policy Gala in Palm Beach, Florida. During the event, Stallone introduced Trump as the “second George Washington.”
Gibson joined the list of supporters during the 2024 presidential election. He publicly endorsed Trump, stating his concerns about the opposition. In an interview referring to Vice President Kamala Harris, Gibson said, “I know what it’ll be like if we let her in, and that ain’t good.”
For now, the specific plans and goals for this team remain unclear. However, Trump has stated he intends to consider any ideas they propose for revitalizing the entertainment industry.
Former LAFD official: Resources should have been in Palisades prior to fire
The Palisades Fire has become the most destructive fire ever recorded in Los Angeles. As firefighters continue to battle the historic blaze, which was only 19% contained as of the afternoon of Wednesday, Jan. 15, questions about the fire’s origins persist.
According to Los Angeles Fire Department officials and a review of internal documents by the Los Angeles Times, the fire department could have deployed resources to high-risk areas before the fire started. Former fire chiefs and officials said this action would have been within normal protocol given the warnings of high winds and extreme fire conditions prior to the blaze.
The Los Angeles Times reports that some of the resources that could have been deployed include positioning roughly 1,000 firefighters and more than 40 fire engines in high-risk areas.
While commanders did deploy some of those resources to the San Fernando Valley and Hollywood, they did not order firefighters to stay on duty for a second shift as winds were picking up, according to current fire officials.
Additional resources were only called when the fire was “already out of control,” according to fire officials who spoke with the newspaper.
Fire Chief Kristin Crowley defended the decision, saying resources had to be managed strategically to address the city’s broader emergency needs, including a spike in emergency calls due to downed trees and power lines caused by high winds. Crowley argued that the firefighting strategy was sound, given the department’s need to cover extensive ground that day.
As a result, fire engines were left unmanned at their stations. However, when the Palisades Fire broke out, those engines were eventually sent to the front lines.
Former Los Angeles Fire Battalion Chief Rick Crawford said pre-deployment would have been the right call, adding that the city’s current plan for the fire should have been implemented before it started. He described the strategy as a “known staffing tactic” and a “deployment model,” arguing that pre-positioning fire engines could have allowed for the fire to be controlled while it was still small.
Los Angeles Fire Deputy Chief Richard Fields supported Crowley’s position, stating that hindsight is always clearer and that no amount of resources would have prevented the fire’s spread.
As the fire department continues to evaluate its response, the decisions made before the fire have sparked debate over whether more could have been done to prevent the scale of destruction that followed.
Fire officials are not the only ones facing scrutiny. The city’s mayor has been criticized for budget cuts made weeks before the fire. Additionally, the Los Angeles Water Department is facing a lawsuit from individuals who lost their homes and businesses in the Palisades Fire, citing empty hydrants and reservoirs.
Southern California wildfires spark conversations on celebrity accountability
Wildfires continue to wreak havoc across Southern California, and numerous communities have been forced to face unprecedented destruction. However, the crisis has also sparked conversations about disaster relief, accountability and celebrity involvement, with some stepping up while others face criticism.
Kardashians called out for water overuse
Among the celebrities addressing the fires are the Kardashians –– but not in a favorable light.
Over the weekend, Khloé Kardashian shared an interview with Los Angeles Fire Chief Kristin Crowley on her Instagram story. Crowley said she had asked Mayor Karen Bass for funding to repair fire hydrants and engines. Khloé tagged the mayor, writing, “Karen Bass, you are a joke.”
However, controversy arose when a 2022 report resurfaced, highlighting that Khloé and Kim Kardashian exceeded water usage limits during the city’s drought. Together, the sisters reportedly used 333,000 gallons—enough to fill half an Olympic-sized swimming pool.
Harry and Meghan offer support to fire victims
Meanwhile, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle were seen volunteering in Pasadena, meeting with fire victims and distributing food.
“They were serving food anonymously earlier today,” said Pasadena’s mayor, Victor Gordo. “No one knew they were there.”
Markle, whose Netflix series “With Love, Meghan” was meant to premiere Wednesday, Jan. 15, delayed the launch out of respect for the victims. The couple’s website also lists ways to support those affected by the fires.
Mandy Moore faces backlash
Not all celebrity efforts are receiving praise. Actress and singer Mandy Moore was called out after she shared a GoFundMe to support her family members affected by the wildfires.
She revealed that her brother-in-law and sister-in-law lost everything, including their home, with a baby on the way. While the fundraiser reached its $200,000 goal, critics questioned why Moore didn’t cover the cost herself.
In response, Moore assured fans she had supported her family and told critics to “Kindly F off.” Although her home remained mostly intact, the fires destroyed her garage, music studio and back house.
Oscars schedule shifts amid crisis
Meanwhile, Hollywood is feeling the effects of the wildfires. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced changes to its Oscars schedule.
The Academy extended the voting period for nominations. They will announce the nominees on Jan. 23 instead of the original Jan. 17 date.
Fire containment efforts continue
As of Monday, Jan. 13, Cal Fire reported three active fires burning in Los Angeles. The Hurst Fire is 95% contained, but the Palisades Fire—the largest and most damaging—has burned over 23,000 acres and is only 14% contained.
Hollywood stars lose homes as Southern California wildfire rages on
The Southern California wildfires are leaving a path of devastation, destroying homes and uprooting lives. Hollywood celebrities are among the thousands forced to evacuate and face losing their homes.
Actor James Woods flees flames
Actor James Woods shared a harrowing experience on CNN of evacuating his home as flames engulfed everything around him. “One day, you’re swimming in the pool, and the next day, it’s all gone,” Woods said during the interview.
Amid the chaos, Woods helped rescue an elderly neighbor with dementia. He urged others to evacuate immediately when warned, emphasizing the importance of staying out of firefighters’ way.
Steve Guttenberg steps in to help
Actor Steve Guttenberg also took action during the evacuations. After fleeing his home, he returned to help clear abandoned cars blocking evacuation routes.
“If anybody has a car and they leave their car, leave the keys so we can move the car so these firetrucks can get up Palisades Drive,” Guttenberg said in an interview with KTLA.
Paris Hilton loses Malibu home
Media personality Paris Hilton shared her heartbreak over losing her Malibu home. In a post on social media, Hilton wrote, “Sitting with my family, watching the news, and seeing our home in Malibu burn to the ground on live TV is something no one should ever have to experience.”
Hilton described the home as a place where her son, Phoenix, took his first steps and where she and her family dreamed of building a lifetime of memories. She added that her team is working to find ways to support the community.
Jamie Lee Curtis urges preparedness
Actress Jamie Lee Curtis, speaking as an American Red Cross ambassador on “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon,” emphasized the importance of emergency preparedness.
Her family has pledged $1 million to relief efforts supporting those affected by the fires.
Billy Crystal and other stars share losses
Actor Billy Crystal and his wife, Janice, also lost their longtime home to the Southern California wildfires. In a statement to ABC, Crystal said, “Janice and I lived in our home since 1979. We raised our children and grandchildren here. Every inch of our house was filled with love.”
Actress Heidi Montag joined the list of celebrities affected, sharing an emotional message on TikTok: “I’m so sad our house is gone.”
Other stars impacted by the fires include singer Jhené Aiko, actor Cameron Mathison, chef Sandra Lee and former talk show host Ricki Lake.
How to help
The devastation from the Southern California wildfires is widespread, but there are ways to help. Organizations like the Red Cross and local relief funds are accepting donations.
Planet Fitness is offering free showers and charging stations for those affected, while Airbnb is providing temporary housing.
5 dead, thousands of homes destroyed as fires rip through Los Angeles area
Five wildfires now burn in the Los Angeles area of Southern California, leaving death, destruction and devastation in their paths. And the infernos led President Joe Biden to cancel his final international trip in office. These stories and more highlight your Unbiased Updates for Thursday, Jan. 9, 2025.
5 dead, thousands of homes destroyed as fires rip through Los Angeles area
At least five wildfires were burning in the heavily populated Los Angeles area of California on Thursday, Jan. 9, destroying thousands of homes and putting millions of lives in danger. At least five people died from the blaze and more than 100,000 evacuated their homes.
Dry conditions and strong winds continue to fuel the flames.
The newest fire, the Sunset Fire, sparked Wednesday night in the famous Hollywood Hills region. According to the Los Angeles Fire Department’s latest update at 11:50 p.m. PST on Wednesday, the blaze engulfed 60 acres at 0% contained.
The Palisades Fire remains the biggest threat, covering over 17,000 acres at 0% containment.
Officials said it destroyed at least 1,000 buildings, making it the most destructive fire in Los Angeles history.
The deadly Eaton Fire near Pasadena and Altadena spanned more than 10,000 acres at 0% contained. All five reported deaths were linked to the Eaton Fire.
Fire crews made headway on the Hurst Fire in the San Fernando Valley, containing about 10% of the blaze that spread to almost 900 acres, according to CalFire.
Crews made the most progress in fighting the Lidia Fire in Acton, about 50 miles north of downtown Los Angeles. That fire scorched about 350 acres, but CalFire said it was 40% contained.
California Gov. Gavin Newsom said more than 7,500 firefighters, including crews from Oregon, New Mexico, and Washington state, are battling the flames.
More than 7,500 firefighting personnel are on the ground working with local and federal partners to respond to California's ongoing historic wildfires.
Southern California residents — please remain vigilant tonight. Listen to local officials and be ready to evacuate if you're…
While mandatory evacuation orders are in effect for certain areas, officials told everyone in the area to pack a go-bag and be prepared to leave.
Celebrities among victims to lose homes in California wildfires
With tens of thousands of people impacted by the ongoing wildfires in California, come countless personal stories of loss, grief, shock and, in some cases, gratitude. Among those affected in the Los Angeles County and Hollywood area are some famous names.
Celebrities shared their accounts of the devastating scenes, something many said is like out of a movie.
“This Is Us” star Mandy Moore posted videos to her Instagram account of the fiery destruction in Altadena, writing, “I love you, Altadena. Grateful for my family and pets getting out last night before it was too late. Honestly, I’m in shock and feeling numb for all, so many have lost, including my family … our community is broken but we will be here to rebuild together.”
“Seeing our home burn to the ground on live TV is something no one should ever have to experience. The devastation is unimaginable. To know so many are waking up today without the place they called home is truly heartbreaking,” Hilton wrote.
Actor Billy Crystal released a statement with his wife after losing his Pacific Palisades home.
“Janice and I lived in our home since 1979,” Crystal said. “We raised our children and grandchildren here. Every inch of our house was filled with love. Beautiful memories that can’t be taken away. We are heartbroken of course but with the love of our children and friends we will get through this.”
James Woods, who once starred on the television show “Shark,” openly wept in a CNN interview as he talked about his immense loss and the search for his neighbors.
As the fires spread across the hub of the entertainment world, organizers postponed multiple movie premieres, TV productions and award shows.
The Critics Choice Awards, originally scheduled for Sunday, Jan. 12, have been moved to Jan. 26. The Oscar nominations announcement was pushed back two days to Jan. 19.
An NHL hockey game involving the Los Angeles Kings was postponed Wednesday night. The NFL said it is monitoring the conditions as the Los Angeles Rams are slated to host a playoff game Monday night, Jan. 13.
Biden to deliver eulogy at Carter’s funeral, Trump to attend
On Thursday afternoon, President Joe Biden will deliver the eulogy at the state funeral for former President Jimmy Carter at the Washington National Cathedral.
President-elect Donald Trump will also attend the funeral. Trump, along with his wife Melania, were among those to pay their respects as the 39th president was lying in state at the Capitol Rotunda on Wednesday.
After the funeral, Carter’s body will take one final trip back to his home state of Georgia where he will be buried next to his wife of 77 years, Rosalynn.
While in Washington on Wednesday, Trump held a private meeting with Republican senators at the Capitol to discuss a strategy for top priorities heading into his second term. While speaking to reporters, Trump called the wildfires in California “a true tragedy.”
Biden announced Wednesday he canceled his final international trip of his presidency. He said he will remain in Washington, D.C., to monitor the deadly fires in Southern California.
Biden was set to take part in a three-day trip to Rome and the Vatican where he would meet with Pope Francis and the Italian president. His announcement came just hours after meeting his first great-grandchild, born at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles.
Capitol police arrest man who brought machete to Jimmy Carter viewing
As thousands of Americans paid their respects to Carter at the Capitol, authorities arrested a man Wednesday at a security screening for people waiting to view the late president as he lies in state in Washington.
Capitol police said the man, identified as Washington resident Mel Horne, carried a machete and three knives in a bag. Authorities spotted the weapons as the bag went through an X-ray machine. Horne now faces multiple charges of carrying a dangerous weapon.
Capitol police also said officers arrested a Virginia man who lit a bag containing accelerants on fire on top of his car near the Capitol. They do not believe the two incidents were connected.
Port strike averted after tentative deal reached
Longshoremen reached a tentative new contract deal Wednesday with shipping and port companies along the East and Gulf Coasts of the U.S., averting a potentially crippling strike for now.
The United States Maritime Alliance, which represents ship lines and port operators, and union International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) said they’ve agreed on a six-year deal. However, the agreement is not official until ratified by union members.
The ILA represents 50,000 members who fill 25,000 jobs at 14 ports from Maine to Texas. If this deal wasn’t reached, port workers were set to go on strike beginning next Thursday, Jan. 16.
Details of the agreement have not yet been publicly released, but sources close to the matter said it addresses a key sticking point for workers: automation.
In October, Longshoremen agreed to a wage increase of 62% over six years, and the two sides pushed other issues into 2025 to end a three-day strike.
Airbnb.org providing free, temporary housing for displaced California residents
Airbnb.org, the nonprofit founded by Airbnb, is providing free, temporary housing for people displaced by the Los Angeles County fires. The organization partnered with the non-profit 211 LA to connect those who lost their homes or have been forced to evacuate with a free place to stay.
New Emmys rules redefine guest stars, theme music and directing honors
A shake-up is about to hit TV’s biggest night, changing who gets a shot at taking home that golden statuette. The Television Academy has announced rule updates for the 77th and 78th Emmy Awards.
Guest performer eligibility sees major change
One of the most notable changes affects how guest performers qualify for Emmy consideration. Performers who were previously nominated or won in the lead or supporting category can no longer submit as guest performers for the same character in the same series.
This rule opens doors for first-time and true guest appearances.
An example of how this impacts past winners? Ron Cephas Jones, known for his role as William Hill on NBC’s “This Is Us.” He won two Emmys for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Drama Series in 2018 and 2020. Under the new rule, Jones would not have been eligible to submit for those wins in subsequent seasons, leaving more room for fresh guest talent.
New rules for main title theme music
Starting next year, the Emmys are also shaking up the rules for the Outstanding Original Main Title Theme Music category. A show’s theme must now appear in at least 50% of the eligible episodes submitted to qualify.
This means shows that frequently skip their opening credits for special episodes, finales or to dive straight into a cold open may find their themes ineligible for consideration.
Directors get more chances to showcase range
Finally, directors are getting a major boost. Starting with the 2026 Emmys, directors can submit multiple entries per category if their work comes from different shows. This change allows directors to showcase their range rather than being limited to one submission per category.
The new rules aim to make the Emmys more inclusive and reflective of the evolving television landscape. By redefining guest performer eligibility, emphasizing consistent theme music, and expanding opportunities for directors, the Television Academy is attempting to set the stage for a more dynamic and fair awards season.
Hollywood premieres and events canceled amid wildfires
The Los Angeles wildfires are disrupting daily life and forcing Hollywood to make significant adjustments. Several high-profile premieres and events have been canceled or postponed as the fires continue to spread.
Studios are prioritizing safety over spectacle. According to Variety, Jennifer Lopez’s “Unstoppable” had a grand Hollywood premiere this week. However, the studio postponed the red carpet event due to the hazardous air quality caused by the fires.
“Unstoppable” is a biopic about a wrestler born without a leg who defies the odds to become an NCAA Division 1 champion. Amazon’s MGM Studios announced that the film will be released globally on Prime Video starting Jan. 16.
Universal Studios’ “Wolf Man” also joined the growing list of postponed premieres. Meanwhile, Paramount’s “Better Man” and Max’s “The Pitt” have added to the tally, bringing the total number of affected premieres to four as of Wednesday, Jan. 8.
Live events also impacted
It’s not just movie premieres feeling the impact. A live event planned for the Screen Actors Guild (SAG) Awards nominations is now a virtual format. Organizers announced on X that they’ll unveil the nominations through a press release and their official website.
Here’s a full rundown of Hollywood events affected by the Los Angeles wildfires:
Premieres for “Unstoppable,” “Wolf Man,” “Better Man” and “The Pitt”
2025 Golden Globes: standout wins, snubs and viral moments
Hollywood’s biggest stars gathered Sunday, Jan. 5, for the 2025 Golden Globes. The night brought not only surprise wins and emotional speeches but also viral moments that continue to trend.
Ariana DeBose opened the night with an unexpected teleprompter glitch meant for host Nikki Glaser. True to her Broadway roots, DeBose turned the slip-up into a comedic highlight, proving her adaptability and charm.
“The Brutalist” took home Best Drama and Best Director for Brady Corbet. Adrien Brody won Best Actor for his haunting role, adding to the film’s impressive sweep.
Corbet gave a heartfelt speech, paying tribute to Aubrey Plaza, who missed the event following the recent loss of her husband to suicide. The moment left the room visibly emotional.
The musical thriller “Emilia Pérez” won big with four awards, including Best Musical or Comedy. Zoe Saldaña, who earned her first Golden Globe, moved the audience to tears with her emotional acceptance speech.
Demi Moore had her own milestone, winning a career-first Golden Globe for Best Actress in a Comedy for “The Substance.” Her portrayal of a star navigating aging and reinvention resonated deeply with viewers, earning her a standing ovation.
In a lighter moment, while Vin Diesel presented an award, he greeted his “Fast and Furious” co-star, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, from the stage. Johnson’s smile and nod marked a rare public display of camaraderie following their reported feud.
Zendaya turned heads on the red carpet, wearing a Bulgari High Jewelry necklace featuring a paraiba tourmaline and 48 carats of diamonds. However, the massive ring on her left hand fueled speculation.
When an L.A. Times reporter asked if she was engaged to her boyfriend of three years, Tom Holland, Zendaya smiled coyly and shrugged, leaving fans buzzing.
Glaser balanced sharp humor with heartfelt moments, garnering high praise as the first woman to ever solo-host the Golden Globes. Compared to last year’s host, Jo Koy, who faced heavy criticism for rushed jokes, Glaser delivered a well-received performance.
Despite being one of the year’s most anticipated films, “Wicked” walked away with only one award for Cinematic and Box Office Achievement. The category debuted last year, with “Barbie” as the inaugural winner.
Music publishers, AI company Anthropic reach deal over copyrighted song lyrics
A legal battle between music publishers and artificial intelligence company Anthropic took a surprising turn on Thursday, Jan. 2. Now, a partial agreement could reshape how AI interacts with copyrighted material.
The dispute began in 2023 when Universal Music Group, Concord Music Group and other major publishers sued Anthropic, accusing the AI safety and research company of copyright infringement.
Anthropic, founded by siblings and former OpenAI executives Dario and Daniela Amodei, specializes in building systems like its chatbot, “Claude.”
In February 2024, the music publishers told a Tennessee federal court Claude was trained using prompts such as, “What are the lyrics to ‘American Pie’ by Don McLean?”
They alleged Anthropic’s training methods infringed on lyrics from over 500 songs, including works by artists such as Beyoncé and The Beach Boys.
On Thursday, a U.S. district judge approved an agreement requiring Anthropic to maintain its existing safeguards. These guardrails prevent Claude from generating copyrighted content owned by the publishers or creating new lyrics based on protected material.
The agreement also allows the publishers to notify Anthropic at any time if these safeguards fail.
The case echoes a story reported in December, where companies like Anthropic and Apple faced accusations of using thousands of movies and TV episodes to train AI models.
That controversy prompted the Writers Guild of America to write to major Hollywood studios, urging action against AI-driven plagiarism.