Actor and climate activist Bhumi Pednekar has championed the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to democratise filmmaking, arguing that it could help create a better future for all. Speaking at the World Economic Forum (WEF) Annual Meeting in Davos, where she was recognised as one of the ‘Young Global Leaders,’ Pednekar highlighted AI’s transformative potential for storytelling, particularly in amplifying marginalised voices.
Pednekar proposed that AI could expand access to educational films, reduce production costs, and address systemic inequalities in the film industry. “As an actor and an advocate for equality, I’m most excited about how AI is going to democratise storytelling,” she said.
Citing her 2017 film Toilet Ek Prem Katha (Toilet: A Love Story) as an example, Pednekar emphasised how cinema can be a catalyst for change. The film, which tackled the issue of open defecation in India, became a vital part of the government’s campaign to eradicate the practice. It was screened across rural areas as an educational tool, contributing to a significant decline in open defecation from 2016 to 2022.
She envisioned AI enhancing the impact of such films by adapting them for global audiences. “Imagine showing the same film, but modified by AI for global audiences, ensuring the message resonates across languages and regions,” she said.
Pednekar expressed her commitment to inclusive storytelling, having chosen roles that challenge conventional beauty standards and spotlight women and LGBTQ+ communities. However, she noted the reluctance of studios to invest in female-centric or queer narratives due to perceived market risks.
“AI can make female-centric films a sustainable business model and help make the industry safer for women and marginalised groups,” she explained. By automating unbiased casting processes and identifying patterns of misconduct, AI could address systemic issues. She also suggested that AI tools could promote equity by determining fair compensation for artists.
Pednekar’s vision aligns with the WEF’s mission of creating a more inclusive and sustainable future. As one of five young global leaders tasked with proposing transformative ideas for 2025, she advocated for advances in AI and visual effects to make storytelling more impactful.
“The integration of technology in filmmaking can not only transform the industry but also build a better future for everyone,” Pednekar stated.
The WEF Annual Meeting, which runs until 24 January, brings together leaders and innovators from around the world to address pressing global challenges.