‘Drive’ director Nicolas Winding Refn teases Ryan Gosling reunion and AI warning

Nicolas Winding Refn opens up about Her Private Hell, AI concerns and plans for another Ryan Gosling collaboration

Photo: Reuters

Filmmaker Nicolas Winding Refn is opening up about his latest sci-fi film Her Private Hell, his thoughts on artificial intelligence regulation and his plans to reunite with actor Ryan Gosling for another movie project.

The director, best known for films including Drive, Bronson and The Neon Demon, said Her Private Hell represents a combination of his past work while allowing him to break away from traditional filmmaking expectations. The neon-filled sci-fi drama follows an actress, a soldier and a mysterious killer in a futuristic world filled with surreal visuals and emotional themes.

Refn explained that the film’s unique style was inspired by his desire to create something outside the influence of modern algorithms. He described the movie as an “opera” filled with bold colours, dreamlike imagery and a powerful musical score from legendary composer Pino Donaggio.

The filmmaker also addressed the growing impact of artificial intelligence on the creative industry. While Refn acknowledged AI’s potential benefits in areas such as medicine and information access, he expressed concerns about job losses and inequality. He said AI should be regulated by governments to ensure responsible use.

Refn also revealed that he and Ryan Gosling continue discussing a possible third collaboration after their successful partnership on Drive. The director said they believe they have another film inside them but are waiting for the right idea.

Looking ahead, Refn is preparing a new take on the horror franchise Maniac Cop, which he plans to shoot in Los Angeles. The filmmaker said the project has finally reached the right moment after years of development.