Rick Baker, Makeup Pioneer and Locarno 2026 Honoree, Discusses AI, CGI and Eddie Murphy Stories

Rick Baker, the longtime Hollywood makeup artist credited by the industry with helping define modern effects make-up, shared remarks about AI and CGI during an appearance connected to a special honor he received at the Locarno Film Festival in 2026. Baker’s comments, reported by The Hollywood Reporter, also touched on how the entertainment business tells stories about screen legends, including Eddie Murphy.

In discussing changes to filmmaking brought by AI and computer-generated imagery, Baker framed the issue through the lens of craft and production roles that historically have not been in the spotlight. He contrasted the visibility of on-screen talent with the work of the departments that build characters and illusions, saying he has a particular appreciation for “below-the-line” professionals.

Baker’s perspective also extended to how films and media portray figures like Eddie Murphy, who has built a career spanning stand-up, blockbuster acting and comedy-based characters. Baker discussed his fondness for stories that center on creative performance and transformation, and his comments drew a connection between makeup artistry and the broader creative choices that shape an audience’s perception of a performer.

The Hollywood Reporter report placed Baker’s remarks in the context of his Locarno 2026 honor, positioning the festival setting as a venue where craft traditions and technological shifts can be discussed together. While the report identifies the honor as a “special” recognition, it does not provide additional details on the award category in the information provided for this story.

Beyond the topic of technology, Baker’s comments emphasized professional recognition within the film pipeline. In his view, audiences and industry insiders often focus on actors and writers, while the artists who help create creatures, prosthetics, period looks and other practical transformations are less frequently celebrated.

The practical takeaway from Baker’s remarks is that debates over AI and CGI in Hollywood are not only about new tools, but also about who gets credit and how production teams maintain standards as workflows change. For viewers, the issue is tied to the look and feel of finished films and the degree to which character work remains grounded in specialized studio labor.

For Baker, the festival honor marks another public moment for a career closely associated with makeup effects. The next steps in the reporting cycle would depend on additional festival communications clarifying the exact nature of the Locarno recognition and on follow-up coverage of Baker’s interview comments about AI and digital effects craft.