‘Trees Are Watching’ reviewed; Eva Green stars in a horror film overshadowed by AI-generated visuals. Directed by Bahman Ghobadi, produced by Martin Scorsese.
On September 19, 2026, Variety reported on the release of Trees Are Watching, directed by Bahman Ghobadi. The horror film features Eva Green in the lead role and explores themes drawn from a Kurdish legend about individuals being reborn as trees and living second lives as furniture. The movie, which premiered in the Centerpiece section of the Toronto International Film Festival, has sparked considerable discussion regarding its use of artificial intelligence in its production.
The film has received a mixed response from critics, who noted the strong performances delivered by Green and a cast of talented child actors. Despite this, the film has been criticized for poor integration of AI-generated content, which many reviewers found detracted from its overall impact. While the concept has intriguing potential, the execution appears weak, leading to a disconnection between the narrative and its visual interpretation.
Ghobadi, known for his contributions to Iranian cinema, attempts to engage with the complex narratives surrounding Kurdish culture through Trees Are Watching. Critics have pointed out that while he possesses a keen eye for nuanced performances and staging, the reliance on generative digital techniques falls short of delivering the emotional resonance expected in horror storytelling. Some reviewers expressed that these AI-generated visuals overshadow the truly human elements within the film, raising ethical concerns about their use in contemporary filmmaking.
The involvement of legendary filmmaker Martin Scorsese as an executive producer raises questions about the emerging trend of AI in cinema, especially when considering his past works that prioritize artistic integrity and human experience. Scorsese's endorsement of this film, in light of its issues with AI-generated components, prompts broader conversations about industry standards and the role of technology in creative processes. Critics suggest that films using AI should provide transparent disclosure to audiences, considering the significant labor and ethical implications surrounding this technology.
As barriers between traditional filmmaking and AI technology continue to blur, Trees Are Watching may serve as a cautionary tale for filmmakers and audiences alike. The film's emphasis on AI has raised alarms about the direction of storytelling in cinema, especially how it may impact viewer engagement and genre expectations. The juxtaposition between the film's narrative depth and the superficial qualities introduced by AI-generated elements could lead to a reassessment of how future projects approach similar themes.
The release of Trees Are Watching signals both a creative exploration and a warning regarding AI in filmmaking. While Bahman Ghobadi showcases solid performances, the critique on visuals and the implications of AI usage necessitate a re-evaluation of industry practices in the pursuit of innovation without compromising artistic authenticity. The discussions surrounding this film, aided by its noteworthy cast and production support, may influence audience expectations and provoke an industry-wide dialogue about the ethical ramifications of employing technology in storytelling.
Readers can find more insights and reviews through related articles such as ‘Anchors Aweigh’ Review and ‘The Life and Deaths of Wilson Shedd’ Review.
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