Robots or Actors? Scandal at an Exhibition in Iran

🤖 At an international exhibition in Iran, an unexpected scandal erupted: actors in detailed makeup and costumes were presented as “next-generation humanoid robots.” At first glance, it really seemed that on stage were high-tech androids with built-in servos, smooth but slightly pensive movements, and facial expressions as if they had firmware 1.0 and their battery was running low.

However, the first impressions dissipated as quickly as they appeared. Experts and especially attentive spectators almost immediately began noticing what technology is still unable to replicate: the tiniest muscle twitches, natural micro-expressions, subtle eye movements — that very “human” quality that cannot be hidden under any makeup. Close-up footage appeared, and the puzzle finally came together: traces of acne, natural shine, normal skin texture — not the perfectly crafted synthetic surface of real humanoid robots.

Unusual videos from the Kish Inox exhibition quickly spread across social media and instantly went viral. They began to be discussed in tech, theater, and science communities worldwide. Some users were amazed by the realism of the “robots,” others were outraged by the deception, and others humorously remarked that “if these are robots, they clearly need a system update and a good charger.”

This was reported in detail by Oxu.Az, citing the Telegram channel “Free Iran.”

As it later turned out, the creators of the installation used classic theatrical performance methods: elaborate makeup, masks, costumes, precise movement training, and deliberately slowed, carefully rehearsed choreography. The actors imitated the gait and behavior of machines so skillfully that many spectators experienced literal dissonance — were they seeing people or future technology?

Robotics experts reacted calmly, but with irony. They note that the show at the exhibition sharply contrasts with the real achievements of the industry. While companies like Tesla, Boston Dynamics, and other world leaders spend billions creating fully autonomous robots, the Iranian performance was spectacular but purely theatrical. The “robots” at the exhibition are not an industry breakthrough, but a skillfully staged performance that nonetheless succeeded in its main task — attracting attention and going viral.

🌐 Meanwhile, the discussion continues to gain momentum: some admire the actors’ skill, some criticize the organizers for attempting to pass off a show as technology, and some laugh at the fact that humanity once again confused theater with the future.

Theatrical performance — 1, high technology — 0.

The video can be watched on our Telegram channel.