Neeraj Pandey calls out AI-altered Raanjhanaa ending as disrespectful, slams Eros for excluding creators

Filmmaker Neeraj Pandey has joined the rising refrain of voices condemning Eros International Media’s resolution to re-release Raanjhanaa’s Tamil-dubbed model Ambikapathy with an alternate AI-generated ending. The revised climax — designed to be “happier” — is ready to hit theatres on August 1, however has already triggered important backlash throughout the movie trade.

“This is totally disrespectful,” Pandey advised NDTV, stressing that utilizing AI to change a movie with out involving its authentic creators violates creative integrity. “AI is only a instrument. A human being is working it. It’s the intent behind it that issues. If a bit of cinema is being altered with out the director or author, they might have finished higher.”

Pandey, recognized for Special 26 and Baby, mentioned he was “zapped” by the transfer, criticising Eros for failing to speak with the filmmakers. “Saying ‘we have now the rights’ isn’t any excuse,” he added. “Somewhat communication wouldn’t have harm.”

The AI-modified model of Ambikapathy has drawn criticism from Raanjhanaa director Aanand L Rai, who referred to as the event “heartbreaking.” Other figures together with Kabir Khan, Kanika Dhillon, and Renuka Shahane have referred to as the choice unethical and damaging to cinematic storytelling.

In its defence, Eros issued an announcement calling itself the “sole producer and unique copyright holder” of Raanjhanaa. The studio mentioned the brand new ending is “legally compliant, transparently labelled, and artistically guided,” created with AI as a assist instrument — not a alternative for human creativity.

Eros additionally pushed again in opposition to Rai and actor Dhanush over feedback and promotional hyperlinks between Raanjhanaa and Rai’s upcoming movie Tere Ishk Mein, claiming that they had no authorized proper to make use of the unique movie’s model. A stop and desist discover was reportedly issued on July 25.