The Rise of AI in Filmmaking
Photo by Unsplash
In recent years, artificial intelligence, or AI, has established itself as a pillar of modern entertainment. Streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video heavily use AI for personalized recommendations, data analytics, and enhancing streaming quality. However, artificial intelligence has begun to play a larger role in Hollywood and film production and has recently faced heavy scrutiny.
AI has played a role in film production by altering an actor’s appearance. “Here,” directed by Robert Zemeckis, utilized anti-aging artificial intelligence technology to make Tom Hanks and Robin Wright’s characters appear younger, rather than casting younger actors to play the roles. The film used Metaphysic AI, a platform that focuses on realistically transforming characteristics.
Another way the film industry has incorporated artificial intelligence in production is through voice cloning technology, which can analyze and replicate human speech patterns. “The Brutalist,” which tells the story of a Hungarian-Jewish immigrant to America, used artificial intelligence voice cloning to increase the accuracy of the Hungarian dialogue spoken by actors Adrien Brody and Felicity Jones. As a result, debates on whether AI should play a role in altering an actor’s performance began circulating, with critics arguing there hasn’t been a clear ethical line drawn with the usage of artificial intelligence.
Oscar-winning film “Emilia Peréz” also utilized voice cloning technology to expand the vocal range of Karla Sofía Gascón, combining Gascón’s voice with French pop star and composer Camille. “The Brutalist” and “Emilia Peréz” received numerous Oscar nominations, sparking controversy over whether they should be considered for awards. The Academy is considering mandatory disclosure over artificial intelligence at the 2026 Oscars. However, they have not put any limitations or bans on AI usage, which could create more significant problems for the film industry's future.
Though it is not yet possible to have an entirely AI-generated movie, the near future holds a promising role in its usage. Open AI's ChatGPT entirely generated the script and cinematic direction of “The Safe Zone,” a futuristic sci-fi short film. The Academy’s criteria for eligible film nominations doesn’t disqualify movies with heavy artificial intelligence usage but instead focuses on transparency. Therefore, if an AI film were to be nominated, a few precautions would have to be implemented to prevent it from receiving awards. Artificial intelligence will continue expanding and evolving in the film industry, with technologies that improve film production efficiency. It may soon become a widely accepted industry standard.
