Oscars may mandate AI disclosure for films after recent controversies

The Motion Picture Academy is actively exploring mandatory AI disclosure requirements for Oscar submissions following the use of AI technology in several high-profile films including “The Brutalist” and “Emilia Pérez.”

Current state of AI in film: The Academy currently provides an optional disclosure form for AI use but is investigating mandatory requirements for the 2026 Oscars rules.

• The Academy’s SciTech Council is developing recommended language for the new requirements
• Visual Effects Society Awards has nominated several AI-based tools in their emerging technology category
• AI applications range from facial performance modification to voice enhancement and audio processing

Notable implementations: Major films are increasingly incorporating AI technology for various technical and creative purposes.

• “The Brutalist” used AI audio technology Respeecher for Hungarian language dialogue editing
• Rising Sun Pictures’ Revize machine learning toolset was employed in “A Complete Unknown” and “Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga”
• “Dune: Part Two” utilized CopyCat, an AI feature in Nuke compositing software, to create the distinctive blue eyes of Fremen characters

Technical applications: AI tools are being integrated into various aspects of film production, particularly in visual effects and audio processing.

• Rising Sun Pictures used AI to transition between child and adult versions of characters in “Furiosa”
• Metaphysic’s toolset enabled age manipulation for Tom Hanks and Robin Wright in “Here”
• AudioShake technology helped isolate Maria Callas’ vocals from 1960s recordings for the film “Maria”

Industry perspective: Visual effects professionals emphasize the importance of transparency and human collaboration in AI implementation.

• A veteran VFX branch member stresses the need for truthfulness in disclosing AI use
• Industry experts maintain that successful digital performances still rely heavily on human actors
• The focus remains on supporting storytelling through collaborative craft work

Looking ahead: Balancing innovation and transparency: As AI tools become more sophisticated and widespread in filmmaking, the industry faces the challenge of maintaining artistic integrity while embracing technological advancement.

• The proposed disclosure requirements could set new standards for transparency in film production
• Questions remain about how to properly attribute and evaluate work that combines human creativity with AI assistance
• The evolution of AI in filmmaking continues to spark discussions about authenticity and artistic merit