New Tom Hanks Film “Here” and the Unsettling ‘De-Aging’ Technology Keeping Stars Forever Young

A Glimpse into the Future of Hollywood

In the ever-evolving landscape of cinema, where storytelling meets cutting-edge technology, Tom Hanks’s latest film, “Here,” has sparked both curiosity and controversy. Directed by Robert Zemeckis and adapted from Richard McGuire’s graphic novel, this ambitious project takes us on a journey through time, exploring the lives of an American couple across centuries. But what truly captivates audiences is the digital sorcery that rejuvenates Hanks and co-star Robin Wright, allowing them to traverse the ages seamlessly.

The Reunion: Forrest Gump

For fans of the iconic “Forrest Gump” (1994), the reunion of Tom Hanks and Robin Wright is a nostalgic delight. Yet, it’s not just their on-screen chemistry that steals the spotlight. The de-aging technology employed in “Here” is nothing short of remarkable. Hanks, now 67, appears as his youthful self – slim, fresh-faced, and sporting a thick head of curly hair reminiscent of his early career. The question arises: How long before such digital wizardry becomes as commonplace as makeup and hair dye for actors?

Zemeckis’s Obsession with Change and Innovation

Robert Zemeckis, the visionary behind “Here,” has always been fascinated by the passage of time. From “Forrest Gump” to the “Back to the Future” trilogy, he explores how people and places transform over decades. But it’s his love affair with digital innovation that sets him apart. Remember the eerie animated mannequins in “The Polar Express” (2004) or the uncanny realism of “Beowulf” (2007)? Zemeckis pushes boundaries, and “Here” is no exception.

Hanks’s Eternal Youth: A Blessing or a Curse?

Tom Hanks, in an interview on The Adam Buxton Podcast, mused about the limitless possibilities of AI and deep-fake technology. He acknowledged that anyone could now recreate themselves at any age. Performances could endure beyond an actor’s lifetime, blurring the lines between reality and illusion. But what implications does this hold? Could our beloved stars be replaced by AI doppelgangers? And will de-aging prolong veterans’ careers at the expense of emerging talent?

Conclusion: The Ageless Silver Screen

Although still in production, Here is already turning heads with its innovative approach to storytelling and use of technology. Whether this de-aging trend is a blessing or a Faustian bargain remains to be seen. One thing is for sure: the future of Hollywood is in the hands of both flesh and code—an enticing prospect for moviegoers and marketers alike.