Film News Today — August 5, 2026
‘The Blacklist was a Plague’ — Locarno Retrospective Curator Ehsan Khoshbakht Talks About What We Can Learn from the Intolerance of the Past and more — today's film signal.
The world of film is abuzz with exciting developments, from retrospectives that shed light on the industry's past to innovative technologies that are shaping its future. A recent Locarno retrospective curated by Ehsan Khoshbakht serves as a poignant reminder of the intolerance that has plagued the industry, offering valuable lessons for today's filmmakers. Meanwhile, directors like Eli Roth are embracing cutting-edge technologies, including AI-assisted shots, to push the boundaries of storytelling, although Roth recently clarified his use of such technology after initially downplaying it. As the industry continues to evolve, it's clear that technology will play an increasingly important role in the creative process.
From comedy-horror films like 'Ali & Ben's Spicy Meats' to behind-the-scenes looks at the work of industry legends like Walt Disney, there's no shortage of fascinating stories emerging from the world of film. Google is actively working to get creatives on board with AI, and it's already having an impact on projects like 'Spider-Man: Brand New Day', which features Naomi Watts in a secret role. Additionally, documentaries like 'Disney Worldbuilders' are highlighting the ways in which visionaries like Jennifer Lee, James Cameron, and Jared Bush are carrying forward Disney's legacy. As the film industry continues to navigate the intersection of technology and creativity, one thing is certain: the future of cinema will be shaped by the innovative thinkers and storytellers who are pushing the boundaries of what's possible.
Today's signal:
• ‘The Blacklist was a Plague’ — Locarno Retrospective Curator Ehsan Khoshbakht Talks About What We Can Learn from the Intolerance of the Past (variety.com)
• Eli Roth Admits ‘Ice Cream Man’ Features AI-Assisted Shots After Suggesting Otherwise: ‘I Misspoke’ (variety.com)
• Cannibalism Comedy-Horror ‘Ali & Ben’s Spicy Meats,’ Starring Amir Nafis, Signs Abnormal Studios for Worldwide Sales (EXCLUSIVE) (variety.com)
• Inside Google’s Efforts to Get Creatives Hooked on AI (variety.com)
• Naomi Watts’ Secret ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’ Role Reunited Her With Tom Holland, 12 Years After ‘The Impossible’: ‘From Playing Your Mom to Your AI’ (variety.com)
• Leslie Iwerks on ‘Disney Worldbuilders’ and How Jennifer Lee, James Cameron and Jared Bush Carry Forward Walt Disney’s Legacy (variety.com)