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Armenian director Jivan Avetisyan is preparing for the release of his new feature film Revival, a co-production between Armenia, Cyprus, and Lithuania, set to premiere in 2026. The film explores the harsh realities of war through the lens of artificial intelligence (AI), following the intertwining stories of three characters as they navigate identity, survival, and future possibilities.

The screenplay was written by Narine Voskanyan and Monique Peterson, with Avetisyan—renowned for transforming real-life stories from Artsakh into powerful cinematic narratives such as Gate to Heaven, The Last Inhabitant, and Tevanik—directing.

The film boasts an international cast including Armand Assante (USA), Maia Morgenstern (Romania), Heino Ferch (Germany), Robin Hairabian (France), Clémence Baudouin (France), Babken Chobanyan (Armenia), and Narine Petrosyan (Armenia). Assante stars as Jean Perbost, a professor of AI engineering.

In an interview with The Armenian Weekly, Assante shared what drew him to the project:

"The script was one of the most cutting-edge stories about artificial intelligence I’ve ever read. Part of the film’s theme is that AI must be infused with a moral compass. Every action of AI must be monitored by a human. Without that oversight, it could become an absolute disaster."

He also reflected on the story’s personal resonance.  "I’m currently working on a documentary about Vietnam War veterans—men who have suffered from PTSD for over 60 years. AI is now deeply embedded in warfare, and algorithms determine targets. While we can minimize soldier casualties, civilian suffering is often deliberately multiplied. This film raises moral questions and issues of responsibility that feel more urgent than ever."

Assante emphasized the significance of Avetisyan’s vision. "Jivan is the conscience of Armenia. He himself has experienced trauma and loss: wars, mass displacements. This film is a map of his heart, a map of the entire history of Armenia. It reflects the multi-generational trauma of his people. That is what gives the film its incredible power."

Describing his character, Assante explained: "Jean is an AI professor who, alongside his student Murat, creates a system for palliative care, aiming to ease human suffering. But he soon discovers that his colleague is using AI for destruction and weaponry instead of helping people. This moral betrayal deeply affects Jean. His emotional journey is one of disappointment, betrayal, and the search for mercy. He is literally dismantled—psychologically and spiritually—as he realizes those around him have violated everything he believed in."

Assante also shared his philosophical take on AI. "The real danger of AI is not that it will turn against us. The true danger is its apathy. Apathy has fueled every genocide in the past 125 years. If AI is apathetic to human suffering, we are doomed."

Filming took place in Armenia, Cyprus, and Lithuania, and Assante praised the dedication of the team:

"I was struck by how much soul the team, including co-producer Viken Attarian, put into this project. It’s an independent film, made on a minimal budget, but with enormous heart."

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