Arundhati Roy Reflects on Unauthorized Beatles Tracks and AI's Threat to Indie Cinema at London Festival Q&A

Arundhati Roy, the Booker Prize-winning author, took part in a Q&A session at BFI Southbank following the U.K. premiere of a 4K restoration of her film "In Which Annie Gives It Those Ones" at the London Indian Film Festival. Variety reported that during the conversation, Roy discussed the unauthorized use of Beatles songs in the film, the growing impact of artificial intelligence on cinema, and the value of handmade independent filmmaking.

VarietyArundhati Roy on Beatles Songs, AI in Cinema, and Indie Filmmaking at London Film Festival Q&A

Roy addressed the inclusion of Beatles tracks in her film, which were used without official permission. According to nkomode.com, she spoke openly about this decision and its implications during the festival event. The discussion highlighted the tension between creative freedom and copyright restrictions in independent productions.

nkomode.comArundhati Roy on Beatles, AI and Indie Filmmaking at London Indian Film Festival

Artificial intelligence in cinema was another major topic. nkomode.com noted that Roy shared her perspective on AI's increasing presence in the film industry. Variety confirmed that she discussed the impact of AI on cinema, positioning it as a challenge to traditional filmmaking methods.

The author also championed the handmade aesthetic of indie filmmaking. Both outlets reported that she emphasized the importance of preserving a hands-on, low-budget approach in an era of technological acceleration. Variety specifically mentioned that Roy spoke about the value of this aesthetic, while nkomode.com described her comments on the craft of independent cinema.