Harmony Korine Calls Out Hollywood’s Creative Decline at Venice, Says Film’s Dominance Is Fading

At a recent press conference in Venice, Harmony Korine took the opportunity to expand on his critical views of the current cinematic landscape. He expressed concern that Hollywood’s creativity is faltering, largely due to its rigid adherence to traditional norms. With cigar smoke swirling around him, Korine, flanked by designer Joao Rosa and the neon green-masked filmmaker Gaspar Noé, lamented the industry’s neglect of its younger generation.

He argued that Hollywood’s creative decline is linked to its failure to engage the imaginative minds that are instead flocking to gaming and streaming platforms. Korine suggested that the industry’s inability to evolve is driving away the very talent it desperately needs, as film is losing its status as the dominant art form.

Korine was in Venice to reveal “Baby Invasion,” his latest experimental venture following “Aggro Dr1ft.” He hinted that the festival screening would offer just a glimpse of the full experience, which would later include interactive elements, allowing viewers to uncover additional layers of the film through their phones. The movie, featuring mercenaries with baby-like faces who invade the homes of the wealthy, is both horrifying and strangely endearing, according to Korine.

Remarkably, some of the cast members were actual criminals who had targeted Korine’s friends, adding an unsettling authenticity to the film. Styled like a first-person shooter, “Baby Invasion” was created using AI and gaming engines, with an original soundtrack by the elusive electronic artist Burial. Korine revealed that all their collaborations were conducted remotely, never having met or spoken directly.

Korine’s previous work, “Aggro Dr1ft,” had a polarizing reception at the same festival, with both ovations and walkouts. His controversial approach continues to challenge and redefine the boundaries of cinema.