Emily Blunt Opts Against AI for Alien Voice in Steven Spielberg's 'Disclosure Day'

Actress Emily Blunt chose a human-centric approach to crafting the alien language for her character in Steven Spielberg's new sci-fi thriller, "Disclosure Day." Blunt reportedly refused an offer from Spielberg to utilize AI to generate the clicking noises her character makes in the film.

During the film's press tour, Blunt shared her process, stating that Spielberg offered her the choice: "He said, 'You know, we could do it with AI, or you could do it.' And I was like, 'I feel confident I can make some weird noises.'" She then experimented with sounds alone in her bathroom, recording various versions and sending them to Spielberg. Her efforts included "Clicking, humming, doing weird Barry White sort of low singing mixed with clicking with Morse code sounds."

Blunt indicated that she "tried everything," aiming for a sound that was "mathematical and not too terrifying." The final version heard in "Disclosure Day" is a compilation of layered noises she recorded in a sound booth. The extraterrestrial thriller, which premiered on Friday, also stars Josh O'Connor, Colin Firth, Colman Domingo, and Eve Hewson.

Blunt has previously voiced skepticism about AI's place in the entertainment industry. In a September 2025 Variety interview, she expressed dismay upon learning about AI actor Tilly Norwood, urging agencies to "Please stop taking away our human connection." In April, she also described AI as a "very scary bubble to poke your head inside" in a conversation with USA Today.

Other actors have also taken steps to protect their work and likeness. Matthew McConaughey has secured trademarks for his likeness and phrases, while singers Taylor Swift and Lionel Richie have filed similar trademark applications. Critics in Hollywood have raised concerns that AI could lead to the displacement of human workers, the unauthorized use of actors' likenesses or voices, and a devaluation of artistic integrity.

According to Business Insider, some in Hollywood see AI as a means to accelerate production and reduce costs.