Japanese filmmaker and storyteller known for observational, humanist cinema
The Salamanca City Central School District has approved a nearly $60,000 purchase of a humanoid robot named Sally from Realbotix to assist robotics education. Officials say Sally will not collect personal data and will operate locally, but teachers and parents raise concerns about data privacy and whether robots could replace teachers. The pilot includes an AI tutor and at-home program, with ongoing community outreach as states review privacy safeguards.
The Cannes Palme d’Or contender Sheep in the Box has opened in Japan, presenting a near-future tale in which bereaved parents consider a humanoid replica of their late son. Critics vary in their reception, with some praising the film’s ambition and others labeling it baffling and emotionally underpowered.
Venice has announced its lineup with new titles and a slate that mirrors Cannes in its mix of international cinema and documentaries. TIFF has revealed more than 60 films for its gala and special presentations, signaling its role as a key market ahead of the fall awards race. The two festivals showcase a mix of traditional studio projects and bold indie filmmaking.
The FCC has banned new imports of humanoid and four-legged robots from China, along with foreign-made power inverters, citing supply-chain, cybersecurity, and national-security risks. The move follows a White House-backed national-security review and aims to secure critical U.S. infrastructure, with existing products already on shelves allowed to remain. Analysts say China remains the leader in humanoid robotics, and the ban could reshape collaboration and future markets.