Brendan O'Connor Neil Jordan “Everyone knew what Weinstein was”
Mar 7, 2026
Neil Jordan, Oscar-winning filmmaker and novelist, discusses his new science-fiction novel and why he turned to time-bending storytelling. He explores AI in art and film, digital manipulation, and the ethics of corporate recreations. He also reflects on Oscar voting, industry consolidation, memories of Warner Brothers, and why he avoided working with Harvey Weinstein.
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Local Future Framed By Corporations
- Neil Jordan frames his science fiction as a local future set on the Bear Peninsula dominated by medical corporations and experimental tech.
- The novel uses computerized memory and a time-travel-like device to recreate a deceased lover and drive the central love story.
AI As Self Improving Device And Fiction Fuel
- Jordan describes an AI called Sigmund that self-improves and spawns subsequent versions, mirroring current advances like Claude.
- He treats AI primarily as rich material for fiction, noting its capacity to change storytelling and film production efficiency.
Digital Tools Eroded Image Trust Long Before AI
- Jordan sees AI and CGI as extensions of long-term trends: digital tools have already eroded trust in images and reshaped filmmaking.
- He argues the shift from analogue to digital photography began a 20-year change in how audiences perceive images.
