News/Entertainment
AI-restored Beatles song lands Grammy nomination
AI-assisted Beatles song makes Grammy history: The Beatles' final song "Now and Then," restored using artificial intelligence, has been nominated for two Grammy awards, marking a significant moment in music technology and industry recognition. The song is nominated for record of the year, competing against contemporary artists like Beyoncé, Taylor Swift, and Billie Eilish. It has also received a nomination for best rock performance, facing competition from Green Day, Pearl Jam, and The Black Keys. These nominations come nearly 50 years after The Beatles officially disbanded, showcasing the enduring legacy of the iconic band. The journey of "Now and Then":...
read Nov 6, 2024Why AI may not be so bad for Hollywood after all
AI's transformative impact on Hollywood visual effects: Artificial intelligence is ushering in a new era of film production, with companies like Metaphysic leading the charge in developing groundbreaking visual effects technologies. Metaphysic, a Los Angeles-based company, is at the forefront of AI-powered visual effects, demonstrating capabilities that allow real-time facial transformations and age manipulation of actors. Ed Ulbrich, Metaphysic's chief content officer and a veteran of traditional visual effects, recognizes AI as a disruptive force in the industry, capable of achieving results that were previously impossible or prohibitively expensive. The viral Tom Cruise deepfake videos from 2021 served as a...
read Nov 4, 2024‘Heretic’ film directors include anti-AI disclaimer in film credits
AI in filmmaking sparks controversy: Directors Scott Beck and Bryan Woods use the end credits of their new movie "Heretic" to warn against the use of generative AI in film production, highlighting growing concerns in Hollywood about the technology's impact on the industry. The directors included a message stating "No generative AI was used in the making of this film" in the credits of "Heretic," their latest A24 release. While "Heretic" doesn't heavily rely on visual effects, Beck and Woods felt compelled to raise awareness about the potential implications of AI in filmmaking. Defining generative AI: Woods describes generative AI...
read Nov 4, 2024AI de-ages Tom Hanks in Zemeckis’ latest film
Groundbreaking AI technology reshapes film production: Robert Zemeckis' latest $50 million film "Here" utilizes cutting-edge generative AI to de-age Tom Hanks and Robin Wright across a 60-year span, marking a significant leap in visual effects capabilities for the film industry. The film's premise and technological innovation: "Here" adapts a 2014 graphic novel set in a New Jersey living room across multiple time periods, leveraging Metaphysic's real-time face swapping and aging effects to portray its stars at various ages. Metaphysic, a visual effects company, developed the system by training custom machine-learning models on frames from Hanks' and Wright's previous films. Unlike...
read Nov 4, 2024UC Berkeley study uses AI to confirm rising Hollywood diversity
AI-powered study confirms Hollywood's increasing diversity: Researchers at UC Berkeley have used facial recognition technology to analyze on-screen representation in over 2,300 films, revealing a trend towards greater diversity in Hollywood since 2010. The study, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, examined 4,412 hours of footage from both popular and prestige films released between 1980 and 2022. Researchers found increased representation for women, Black, Hispanic/Latino, East Asian, and South Asian actors, particularly after 2010. The diversity increase is not limited to a few films with all non-white casts but is evident across individual movies as well....
read Nov 4, 2024Netflix pivots to AI gaming after closing internal studio
Netflix pivots to AI-driven game development: The streaming giant has appointed Mike Verdu as VP of GenAI for Games, signaling a significant shift in its gaming strategy. Netflix is embracing generative AI technology to accelerate game development and create novel gaming experiences. This move comes shortly after the company shut down its internal studio focused on creating "AAA" games. Verdu emphasizes that human creative talent will remain central to the game development process, with AI serving as a catalyst and accelerant. Potential impact on game development: Verdu envisions AI as a transformative force that could revolutionize the gaming industry's productivity...
read Nov 4, 2024Prime Video’s new AI tool will recap your favorite shows and movies
New AI feature for Prime Video: Amazon is introducing X-Ray Recaps, a generative AI-powered tool designed to provide summaries of TV content on its Prime Video platform. X-Ray Recaps can generate text summaries for full seasons, individual episodes, or specific segments of TV shows. The feature will be accessible from a show's detail page or within the X-Ray interface while watching content. Amazon's AI analyzes video segments, subtitles, and dialogue to create detailed descriptions of key events, locations, timelines, and conversations. Technical implementation and safeguards: Amazon has implemented measures to ensure the AI-generated recaps are both useful and appropriate for...
read Nov 3, 2024How AI tools like Runway are changing the animation industry
AI-powered animation breakthrough: Runway's new Act-One feature represents a significant advancement in AI video generation technology, potentially revolutionizing the animation industry by simplifying the creation of nuanced facial expressions and maintaining character consistency. Act-One allows users to create animated characters with complex facial expressions without the need for sophisticated motion capture equipment or extensive technical expertise. The technology can transfer human facial expressions to a wide range of animated characters, from cartoons to realistic depictions, including fantastical creatures and even sculptures. Runway's approach differs from traditional animation pipelines by using a streamlined process driven solely by an actor's performance, eliminating the...
read Nov 1, 2024Disney forms team to guide AI and mixed reality adoption
Disney establishes strategic AI and mixed reality group: The entertainment giant has formed a new Office of Technology Enablement to oversee the responsible adoption of next-generation technologies across its various business segments. Key details of the initiative: Jamie Voris, former CTO of Walt Disney Studios, will lead the newly created group The Office of Technology Enablement will report to Disney Entertainment co-chairman Alan Bergman The group aims to position Disney as a leader in formulating industry best practices for AI and mixed reality Strategic objectives and scope: The initiative is designed to ensure Disney remains at the forefront of technological...
read Oct 31, 2024Russo bros.’ AGBO taps Apple veteran to develop AI tools for filmmakers
AI meets Hollywood: AGBO hires tech veteran to lead AI integration in filmmaking: AGBO, the media company founded by renowned filmmakers Anthony and Joe Russo, has appointed Dominic Hughes as its first chief scientific officer to spearhead the development of AI technologies for creative processes. Key appointment and role: Dr. Dominic Hughes brings extensive experience in machine learning and AI to AGBO, where he will work closely with storytelling and innovation teams to enhance the creative process through AI technologies. Hughes holds a Ph.D. from Oxford University and has held research positions at Stanford University in computer science and mathematics....
read Oct 30, 2024Animation Guild negotiates AI rules in extended contract talks
AI negotiations extend Animation Guild contract: The Animation Guild and the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers have agreed to extend their contract negotiations through December 2, 2023, as discussions continue over artificial intelligence regulations in the industry. The contract, which was set to expire on November 1, 2023, has been extended to allow for further bargaining on AI guardrails. Negotiations began on August 12, 2023, and have been ongoing intermittently since then. While some progress has been made, the two sides have not yet reached a final agreement. Key players and industry context: The Animation Guild, representing approximately...
read Oct 30, 2024UK game developers support US strike over AI concerns
Video game voice actors strike impacts UK industry: The ongoing strike by SAG-Aftra union members in the US has ripple effects on the UK video game voice acting community, highlighting global industry concerns. SAG-Aftra union voice actors have been on strike since July, refusing to work with major companies like Activision, Disney, Warner Bros, and EA over issues including the use of generative artificial intelligence (Gen AI). Negotiations between the union and game companies have been extended without a major breakthrough, causing slowdowns in the voiceover industry. The strike has affected the release of English-language voice acting for some games,...
read Oct 30, 2024Award-winning director signs deal with AI content platform DreamFlare AI
Pioneering AI-powered storytelling: Jeff Gipson, an award-winning director known for his work on Disney Animation's VR shorts, has entered into a partnership with DreamFlare AI to create a series of shorts for their generative AI content platform. Gipson's background in VFX and immersive storytelling has earned him several accolades, including the AIXR VR Film of the Year award in 2020 for "Myth: A Frozen Tale" and an Advanced Imaging Society Lumiere Award for best animated VR film in 2019 for "Cycles." His work has also garnered four Visual Effects Society Award nominations, and he has contributed to the VFX on...
read Oct 30, 2024Actors union strikes AI voice deal with startup Ethovox
Groundbreaking AI voice model agreement: SAG-AFTRA, the union representing actors and performers, has reached a significant deal with Ethovox, a company developing an advanced AI voice model. The agreement focuses on fair compensation for voice performers whose work contributes to training Ethovox's AI model, which could be used to create "digital replicas" of voices. This deal marks a notable step in addressing concerns about AI's impact on the entertainment industry and performers' rights. Key provisions of the agreement: The contract between SAG-AFTRA and Ethovox sets important precedents for performer compensation and protection in the age of AI voice technology. Voice...
read Oct 29, 2024Entertainment company Dolphin partners with deepfake protection firm Loti AI
AI-powered protection against deepfakes and unauthorized content: Dolphin, an entertainment marketing and production firm, has partnered with Loti AI to combat the rising threat of AI-generated deepfakes and unauthorized content distribution. The partnership aims to safeguard companies and celebrity clients from fake accounts, false endorsements, deepfakes, and unlicensed content distribution. Dolphin will provide its subsidiaries, including 42West, The Door, Shore Fire, Special Projects, and Elle Communications, access to Loti's advanced detection and takedown tools. The collaboration will also involve Dolphin offering feedback to assist Loti in further developing and expanding its services. Industry response to AI-generated content challenges: The partnership...
read Oct 29, 2024Robert Downey Jr. vows legal action against AI replicas of himself
Robert Downey Jr. takes a stand against AI replication: The acclaimed actor has issued a stern warning to Hollywood executives regarding the use of artificial intelligence to recreate his likeness in future productions. The big picture: Downey's stance reflects growing concerns about the ethical implications and potential misuse of AI technology in the entertainment industry. During an appearance on the "On With Kara Swisher" podcast, Downey declared his intention to sue any future executives who attempt to create a digital replica of him using AI or deepfake technology. The actor expressed confidence that Marvel, with whom he has a long-standing...
read Oct 21, 2024AI threatens actors’ jobs, Nicolas Cage cautions newcomers
Nicolas Cage sounds alarm on AI's impact on acting: The veteran actor warns young performers about the potential dangers of artificial intelligence in the film industry, particularly regarding digital replicas of actors. Key concerns raised: Cage expresses deep apprehension about the use of "employment based digital replicas" (EBDRs) in filmmaking, even with recent protections put in place. At the 25th Newport Beach Film Festival, Cage described AI as a new technology that he hadn't faced in his 42-year career until recently. He emphasized that actors are "instruments" in film and warned that AI technology aims to "take your instrument." Cage...
read Oct 18, 2024Renowned horror film studio teams with Meta to leverage AI video tech
AI in Hollywood: Blumhouse Productions Partners with Meta for Movie Gen Access: Blumhouse Productions, the renowned horror film studio, has entered into a partnership with Meta to utilize an early version of their AI video generation model, Movie Gen, sparking discussions about the role of artificial intelligence in filmmaking. Industry collaboration and technology exploration: Blumhouse Productions, known for franchises like "Halloween" and "The Purge," is taking steps to incorporate AI technology into its creative process through a partnership with Meta. The collaboration grants Blumhouse access to an early version of Meta's recently unveiled AI video generation model, Movie Gen. Jason...
read Oct 17, 2024Inside Hollywood’s cautious approach to adopting AI
AI in Hollywood: A slow and cautious adoption: The entertainment industry's anticipated embrace of AI tools for film and television production has been slower than expected, with major studios hesitating to form partnerships with AI companies. Promised revolution meets industry skepticism: Early in 2024, AI companies like OpenAI approached Hollywood studios with ambitious promises of revolutionizing the production process, but the response has been cautious and measured. OpenAI and other AI firms sought access to footage and intellectual property to train their models, offering tools to make movie and TV production faster, easier, and more cost-effective. Despite the initial excitement,...
read Oct 13, 2024Documentary filmmaker vows to avoid using AI again after latest project
Innovative documentary brings Pharrell Williams' story to life with Lego: Morgan Neville's new documentary "Piece by Piece" offers a unique perspective on the career of music icon Pharrell Williams, utilizing Lego animation to tell the story of the prolific producer and artist. Unconventional production during unprecedented times: The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated creative solutions for the documentary's production, leading to a blend of remote interviews and innovative storytelling techniques. Neville conducted interviews with Pharrell's collaborators, including Kendrick Lamar and Missy Elliott, remotely during lockdowns. The concept of using Lego animation originated from Pharrell himself during their initial meeting, requiring approval from...
read Oct 10, 2024Industry titans discuss future of entertainment, content at Advertising Week
AI in the spotlight: The 2024 Advertising Week in New York featured discussions on the growing influence of artificial intelligence in various industries, from music streaming to automotive technology. Spotify's AI DJ, which uses a team member's voice and AI-generated content, was highlighted as an innovative way to personalize playlist generation and enhance user experience. Ford is integrating AI-powered features into their vehicles, including hands-free highway driving and high-tech security systems controlled through smartphones. IBM is focusing on leveraging AI for enterprise-level changes, aiming to automate tasks and free up human resources for more value-creating activities. Evolving media landscape: Industry...
read Oct 7, 2024New report details massive surveillance network being built by streaming services
Streaming TV's surveillance surge: The Center for Digital Democracy (CDD) has released a comprehensive report detailing the extensive tracking and targeting practices employed by the connected TV (CTV) industry, raising significant privacy and consumer protection concerns. The 48-page report, titled "How TV Watches Us: Commercial Surveillance in the Streaming Era," argues that streaming services and hardware companies have developed an unprecedented "surveillance system" that undermines viewer privacy. The CDD claims that the CTV industry's practices pose severe risks to consumer privacy and protection, going beyond traditional data collection methods. The report highlights how streaming platforms and device manufacturers are leveraging...
read Oct 7, 2024AI transforms sports coverage with ESPN-style broadcasts
AI-Driven Personalization in Sports Media: ESPN is poised to revolutionize sports content delivery by leveraging artificial intelligence to create customized versions of its iconic SportsCenter program for individual viewers. The evolution of SportsCenter: ESPN's flagship sports news program is set to undergo a significant transformation, moving away from its traditional format of charismatic anchors delivering sports highlights and analysis. SportsCenter has long been known for its dynamic duo of anchors providing entertaining coverage of daily sports events. The show's format has remained relatively consistent over the years, making it a staple of sports broadcasting. ESPN chairman Jimmy Pitaro envisions a...
read Oct 1, 2024AI video creation transformed by Kling’s new lip syncing feature
Kling's game-changing lip sync feature: Kling, a leading AI video generator, has introduced a highly accurate lip sync feature that works even on faces not directly facing the camera, marking a significant advancement in AI video technology. The new lip sync capability is described as one of the most precise implementations in the industry, potentially opening doors to the creation of artificial actors for various applications. This feature could enable individual AI filmmakers to produce entire productions with dialogue, although the technology is still evolving and not yet on par with professional human actors. Recent updates and new features: Kling...
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