Eli Roth admits AI was used in parts of upcoming movie 'Ice Cream Man'

Eli Roth has confirmed that generative artificial intelligence was used in a limited number of scenes in his upcoming horror film Ice Cream Man, bringing clarity after days of speculation surrounding the production.

The discussion began after early viewers claimed the independent horror film contained noticeable AI generated imagery. Online conversations quickly gathered pace as audience members questioned whether the technology had been used extensively throughout the film. Initial comments from Roth about the animation process added to the confusion before the filmmaker later issued a more precise explanation.

Speaking to Polygon, Roth clarified that AI was used only in a very small portion of a few scenes. He said he had previously misspoke while describing the creative process and emphasised that the technology played a limited role rather than replacing traditional filmmaking techniques.

According to Roth, one sequence was inspired by the distinctive style of animated cartoons from the late 1920s, particularly the jittery movement and dancing skeleton imagery associated with that era. He explained that he personally drew the loop cycles and visual style before collaborating with animators to refine the finished sequence. He added that AI was incorporated only for a small part of the process to help achieve the intended artistic effect.

Roth has not identified every scene where AI was used, leaving audiences to discover those moments when the film reaches cinemas. His clarification has nevertheless become one of the most discussed aspects of the film ahead of its release.

Ice Cream Man is an independent production released through Roth's company The Horror Section. The filmmaker recently said that working outside the traditional studio system gave him greater creative freedom, allowing him to pursue ideas without extensive studio oversight. He also described horror as a genre that naturally pushes creative boundaries and often embraces provocative storytelling.

The AI confirmation arrives during an ongoing industry wide conversation about the role of artificial intelligence in filmmaking. The technology has generated significant debate among filmmakers, actors and audiences, particularly following concerns raised during recent Hollywood labour negotiations over creative ownership and the protection of artists' work. Even limited use of AI in films has attracted close scrutiny as viewers increasingly expect transparency about how productions are made.

Despite the online discussion, Roth has maintained that the film remains the product of artists, animators and filmmakers working together, with AI serving only a minor supporting function in selected scenes. His clarification distinguishes the production from claims circulating online that suggested the technology had been used far more extensively.

Ice Cream Man is scheduled for a theatrical release on August 7.