Dhanush Condemns AI-Altered 'Raanjhanaa' Re-release, Calls it an Attack on Cinema's Soul

Tamil superstar Dhanush has strongly criticized the unauthorized AI-altered re-release of his 2013 film 'Raanjhanaa', stating that the modified ending has "stripped the film of its very soul" and was released despite his clear objections.

The controversy erupted after the Tamil version of the romantic drama, titled 'Ambikapathy', was re-released in theaters on August 1 with an AI-generated "happy ending" that fundamentally changed the film's original conclusion. In the altered version, Dhanush's character Kundan survives and recovers, contrary to the original tragic ending where he dies.

Taking to social media with a post titled "For the love of cinema", Dhanush expressed his distress over the unauthorized modifications. "This is not the film I committed to 12 years ago", he wrote, emphasizing that the concerned parties proceeded with the release despite his explicit opposition.

The actor went further to highlight broader implications for the industry, stating that "The use of AI to alter films or content is a deeply concerning precedent for both art and artists. It threatens the integrity of storytelling and the legacy of cinema." He called for stricter regulations to prevent such practices in the future.

Dhanush's statement follows similar criticism from the film's director, Aanand L. Rai, who had earlier condemned the modification as unauthorized and "a reckless takeover that strips the work of its intent, its context, and its soul". The director revealed that the alterations were made and the film was re-released without his knowledge or consent.

Rai described the past three weeks as "surreal and deeply upsetting", expressing devastation at seeing his carefully crafted work being altered and repackaged without permission.

The incident has sparked widespread criticism within the film industry, with several prominent figures including directors Neeraj Pandey, writer Kanika Dhillon, and producer Tanuj Garg expressing support for the original creators. They have collectively denounced the AI-altered release as unethical and harmful to artistic integrity.

'Raanjhanaa', which originally released in 2013, starred Dhanush alongside Sonam Kapoor and achieved both critical acclaim and commercial success. Over the years, it has attained cult status among audiences, making the unauthorized alterations particularly controversial among fans and industry professionals alike.

This controversy raises significant questions about the use of artificial intelligence in creative industries and the rights of original creators. The incident highlights the need for clearer regulations and ethical guidelines regarding AI's role in modifying existing artistic works, especially when done without the consent of the original creators.

The case of 'Raanjhanaa' may well become a landmark example in discussions about protecting artistic integrity in the age of AI, as the entertainment industry grapples with balancing technological capabilities with creative rights and artistic vision.

As the debate continues, it underscores the urgent need for the industry to establish comprehensive frameworks that protect creators' rights while addressing the ethical implications of AI in entertainment.