The Guardian view on Tilly Norwood: she’s not art, she’s data | Editorial

The backlash against AI actor Tilly Norwood has been intense, with many in Hollywood expressing their disdain for the concept. Despite her brief appearance in a comedy sketch, the reaction from actors and critics has been overwhelmingly negative, highlighting a deeper issue within the industry. This situation raises important questions about the future of acting and the impact of technology on creative professions, as Hollywood grapples with its own identity amidst rising trends like cosmetic surgery.

This week, the entertainment world is buzzing with the introduction of Tilly Norwood, a virtual actress who made her debut at the Zurich Film Festival. Her emergence highlights the growing trend of AI in Hollywood, sparking discussions about the future of acting and creativity. Alongside Tilly, film critic Emma Jones shares insights on the festival's human stars, including Russell Crowe, who received a Lifetime Achievement Award, and Colin Farrell, who captivates audiences in a new Macau-set role. This blend of virtual and real talent showcases the evolving landscape of the film industry.

The emergence of Tilly Norwood, an AI-generated actress from Xicoia, raises concerns about the future of film culture. Critics argue that such uncanny figures dilute the artistry of traditional acting by mimicking past performances without originality. This trend towards artificiality in cinema could lead to a blandified film landscape, where genuine human emotion and creativity are overshadowed by lifeless digital creations. It's a call to action for the industry to prioritize authentic storytelling and real performances over technological gimmicks.

Severe 85mph winds have left hundreds without power in Wales, causing significant disruptions. A ferry attempting to reach Holyhead was forced to circle offshore for hours, unable to dock. This situation highlights the impact of extreme weather on transportation and local infrastructure, raising concerns about safety and emergency preparedness.

The recent failure of the government funding vote in the US Senate has dashed hopes for a swift resolution to the ongoing government shutdown. With Democrats standing firm in their position, President Donald Trump is preparing to implement layoffs and budget cuts across federal agencies. This situation is critical as it not only affects government operations but also impacts countless employees and services that rely on federal funding.

The Bledisloe Cup match between Australia and New Zealand is set to take place in Perth, with kick-off scheduled for 5:45 PM local time. Fans can expect a challenging game due to damp conditions, as rain has been intermittent throughout the day, making the field slick. This match is significant as it continues the long-standing rivalry between the Wallabies and the All Blacks, drawing attention from rugby enthusiasts and impacting the Rugby Championship standings.

Tensions continue to escalate in the Israel-Gaza conflict as airstrikes are reported in Gaza, despite former President Donald Trump's call for an immediate halt to the bombings. Israel's Prime Minister Netanyahu has indicated that the country is ready to implement the first stage of Trump's Gaza plan, which aims to address the ongoing crisis. This situation is critical as it not only affects the lives of those in Gaza but also has broader implications for regional stability and international relations.

Australia's second match in the Women's Cricket World Cup against Sri Lanka faced interruptions due to lightning in Colombo. Groundstaff had just begun to remove the covers when the weather turned, highlighting the challenges of playing in unpredictable conditions. The match requires at least 20 overs per side to be counted, and an extra hour is allocated for delays. This situation underscores the importance of weather management in sports, especially in tournaments where every match counts.

As the Premier League season heats up, David Moyes has expressed that a top 10 finish would be a satisfactory outcome for Everton. Meanwhile, Bournemouth's recent performance has propelled them to second place in the league, showcasing the competitive nature of this season. This news is significant as it highlights the shifting dynamics in the league and the varying aspirations of different clubs, making every matchday crucial for teams aiming for better standings.