AceShowbiz - In an age where connectivity through technology is indispensable, acclaimed director Denis Villeneuve has made a bold decision: cellphones are strictly banned on his film sets.

Interviewed by the Los Angeles Times, the "Dune" filmmaker expressed his discontent with how technology is affecting human interaction. "I feel that human beings are ruled by algorithms right now," he said, highlighting that, "we behave like AI circuits," and lamenting the disconnection these devices foster in society.

Acknowledging that he finds phones "addictive" and admitting, "I'm very tempted to disconnect myself. It would be fresh air," Villeneuve finds no place for cellphones within the high-stakes and immersive environment of a film set.

Comparing the experience of filmmaking to other artistic endeavors, Villeneuve noted, "Cinema is an act of presence. When a painter paints, he has to be absolutely focused on the color he's putting on the canvas."

"It's the same with the dancer when he does a gesture. With a filmmaker, you have to do that with a crew, and everybody has to focus and be entirely in the present, listening to each other, being in relationship with each other."

The policy has been strictly enforced "since Day 1," and as Villeneuve emphasized, "It's forbidden. When you say cut, you don't want someone going to his phone to look at his Facebook account."

Villeneuve is not alone in this stance. Fellow filmmaker Christopher Nolan also enforces similar restrictions on his sets, creating an environment where total immersion in the craft is prioritized.

The discipline extends beyond gadget-free policies. Villeneuve shared that, prompted by the back problems he experienced on the set of "Blade Runner 2049", he and cinematographer Greig Fraser chose to minimize their physical footprint during the making of "Dune" by abstaining from sitting while on set.

"We decided to stand, to have minimal footprints so we could be flexible and go fast, to keep the blood flowing, to be awakened."

This dedication to creating a conducive environment for artistic expression is evident in the success of Villeneuve's films. His adaptations of Frank Herbert's "Dune" series have not only received critical acclaim but have also resonated with audiences worldwide, earning a combined $1.12 billion globally.

As Villeneuve prepares to film "Dune Messiah" in late 2025 or 2026, his approach to technology serves as a testament to the value of focus and genuine human connection in the realm of cinematic creation.