Akshay Kumar Champions Authentic Action Over VFX and AI in Bollywood
Bollywood superstar Akshay Kumar has voiced strong criticism against the film industry's growing dependence on visual effects (VFX) and artificial intelligence (AI) for crafting action sequences. In a recent interview with PTI, the actor, renowned for his martial arts skills in disciplines like Karate, Muay Thai, Taekwondo, and Kudo, emphasized his preference for raw and real action over the prevalent picture-perfect versions enhanced by technology.
Kumar's Call for Realism in Action Cinema
Akshay Kumar highlighted a significant shift in how action films are produced today. He lamented that earlier, action scenes were genuine, but now everything is often executed through VFX, which he finds unenjoyable and fake. "There is a huge difference in the way action films are being made today. Earlier, the action would be real; now everything is done in VFX. It's not fun as it feels fake. I want to make a film that is real," Kumar stated.
He elaborated with examples, saying, "For instance, if I'm jumping, then I'm jumping for real and not using VFX for it, or if I'm kicking, then I'm kicking for real, not like 15 people are helping me kick. I want to make an action film without the use of VFX." This stance underscores his commitment to authenticity, drawing from his early career as an action star in hits like the "Khiladi" franchise, "Mohra", "Suhaag", "Elaan", and "Jaanwar".
Critique of AI and the Analogy of Painting
At 58 years old, Kumar is not a fan of the industry's increasing reliance on AI, believing it's easy to distinguish between actual action sequences and those generated by computers. "I'm saying this in the era of AI, and people may think what they wish to, but I want to do an action film that is a real action film. The audience can feel how much effort is being put in, unlike the efforts taken with the help of AI or computer," he explained.
To illustrate his point, Kumar used the analogy of painting: "There's a difference between a real, hand-made painting and a printed (digital) painting. The printed painting may look perfect, and the real painting may have some flaws. Now, it depends on you what you want to see. I want to make a real painting." This comparison reinforces his belief in the value of genuine effort over technological perfection.
Recent Projects and Franchise Involvement
Beyond his advocacy for authentic action, Kumar expressed delight in joining successful cinematic universes. He played a small yet significant role in "Stree 2" (2024) and recently joined the cast of the fifth installment in the comedy franchise "Golmaal", directed by Rohit Shetty. He joins primary cast members including Ajay Devgn, Arshad Warsi, Tusshar Kapoor, Sharman Joshi, Kunal Kemmu, and Shreyas Talpade.
Reflecting on his franchise roles, Kumar said, "Ajay Devgn said, 'I get into every franchise'. But if I'm getting to do 'Stree', why will I not do it? I do franchise films because I'm offered as they think I'm capable of doing it. It's good to be part of franchise films, and 'Golmaal' is a big franchise." This highlights his strategic choices in balancing action with other genres, having shifted towards drama, comedy, and socially relevant themes in recent years while still featuring in action entertainers like "Holiday", "Gabbar is Back", and "Sooryavanshi".
Upcoming Release and Industry Context
Akshay Kumar is currently awaiting the release of his film "Bhooth Bangla", directed by Priyadarshan, set to hit theaters on April 10. His comments come at a time when the film industry is increasingly integrating advanced technologies like VFX and AI, sparking debates about authenticity versus convenience in filmmaking.
As one of Hindi cinema's original action stars, Kumar's perspective adds a valuable voice to discussions on preserving the raw essence of action cinema in an era dominated by digital enhancements.
