How artificial intelligence is redrawing the boundaries of cinematic creativity
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So, you’ve probably heard about the latest stir in Hollywood – and no, it’s not about another celebrity feud or a blockbuster release.
Instead, the buzz is all about artificial intelligence elbowing its way into the director’s chair, churning out movie trailers, title sequences, and even entire episodes of beloved shows.
It’s an uncanny blend of technology and creativity that has everyone from industry insiders to casual moviegoers sitting up and taking notice.
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The "Barbie" movie's debut has been postponed in the Middle East until the end of August due to Warner Brothers still working on an edit of the film that will appease the region's censors. (REUTERS/Maja Smiejkowska/File Photo)
The "Barbenheimer" phenomenon
Take the "Barbenheimer" craze, for instance. For those not in the loop, "Barbie" and "Oppenheimer" were released on the same weekend. This inspired an ambitious (or possibly mad) Reddit user to use AI to splice together a trailer mashup.
The result? A pink mushroom cloud of viral content, underscored by a stark difference in movie themes and public fascination. Now that's something traditional Hollywood would have taken months and millions to pull off, but AI? Just four days.
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AI Marvels: A new reality?
Then we have Marvel, a giant in the film industry, dipping its toes into the AI pool. In the title credits of their latest series, "Secret Invasion," which was released on Disney +, AI-generated art takes center stage.
While some viewers were fascinated, others expressed concerns about the potential threat to human artists. It's an issue that's come under the spotlight, with creators worrying about being replaced by the cold, algorithmic hands of AI.
However, the director, Ali Selim, sees AI as an explorative and exciting artistic tool.
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Tom Hanks’ ageless performance: AI brings generations to life in "Here"
Scheduled for release next year is the Miramax movie "Here," which will use the power of AI to make movie magic happen. The film stars Tom Hanks, who’s now 67, and takes place in one room over many generations.
This will be accomplished using a new generative AI-drive tool dubbed Metaphysic Live. Director Robert Zemeckis worked with artificial intelligence company Metaphysic to render Hanks’ face at various ages, older and younger.
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Of rings and quirkiness: AI's take on classics
Still not convinced of AI's growing presence? An AI-generated trailer for a fictitious Wes Anderson adaptation of "Lord of the Rings" certainly raised eyebrows.
This quirky take on the Tolkien classic divided opinion, with some praising the unique approach while others lambasted the uncanny aesthetics.
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The AI TV show invasion
It's not just movie trailers. AI is making inroads into episodic television as well. A recent South Park episode was created using AI, pushing the boundaries of AI-generated content from short clips and trailers to full-length episodes.
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Star Wars, AI and Wes Anderson: a curious blend
Perhaps the best (or most disturbing) is an AI-generated Star Wars trailer in the distinct style of Wes Anderson. It's a testament to how far this technology can push boundaries, transforming familiar narratives with fresh perspectives.
Then again, it has also sparked debates about whether these AI creations are stepping over the line into the hallowed domain of creative integrity.
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AI takes center stage in Hollywood union strike
The impact of AI on the entertainment industry has become a genuine concern in Hollywood. It has sparked a significant dispute between the Screen Actors Guild (SAG-AFTRA) and the Writers Guild of America (WGA) against the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers. While various issues are at the center of the strike, the use of AI in creative processes has taken center stage.
Actors and writers are deeply concerned that AI might eventually replace real talent in the production process. There are even propositions from certain studios suggesting the possibility of scanning and owning the likeness of extras using AI technology. This development has raised serious questions about the future of human creativity and the essence of genuine artistic expression in the entertainment world.
Kurt's key takeaways
In the grand scheme of things, AI is still a relative newcomer to the Hollywood scene. Yet, in its short time on set, it's already managed to stir up some serious drama. From reshaping the narratives of cinematic giants like Star Wars to creating viral internet sensations like "Barbenheimer," AI is certainly making a mark.
Just like any good movie, there's a plot twist. There's a heated debate brewing over how this tech should be used. Will AI open up unprecedented creative avenues, or is it a looming threat to the livelihood of human creatives?
The ultimate question - and here's where we want to hear from you - is this: In a world where AI can conjure up compelling movie trailers and even entire TV episodes, what is the real value of human creativity in Hollywood? Are we entering an era where machines might outshine us in storytelling, or do we still hold the upper hand when it comes to conjuring up true magic on screen?
What do you think? Should Hollywood roll out the red carpet for AI, or should it be kept out of the director's chair? Share your thoughts by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact
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Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on "FOX & Friends." Got a tech question? Get Kurt’s CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com.
