tech
‘I see the incredible promise’: on set of an AI film shoot as new studios embrace controversial tech
Amid fears for jobs, some film-makers say AI could enable them bypass studio giants and take more creative risks
TL;DR
- New AI film studios like Promise are leveraging AI for movie production, creating backgrounds, special effects, and synthetic performers.
- These studios are backed by major tech companies and venture capitalists, challenging the necessity of traditional studio sound stages and financing.
- The trend is controversial, with concerns raised by directors, actors, and writers about job displacement and the potential loss of human connection in filmmaking.
- Proponents argue that AI can serve as a tool to enable mid-budget films, empower independent creators, and potentially lead to cost savings of 20% to 50%.
- Veteran filmmakers like Joel Hynek express excitement about AI's potential, comparing it to the transition from optical to digital film, while others like Christopher Nolan voice suspicion and public rejection.
- Chinese AI models are noted for their advanced capabilities, with some filmmakers even considering relocating if restrictions are placed on their use in the US.
- The use of AI in film production is often discussed discreetly, drawing comparisons to plastic surgery where many are using it but few openly discuss it.