Ben Affleck’s take on AI in Hollywood goes viral

The integration of artificial intelligence into Hollywood filmmaking has become a significant topic of discussion, with actor Ben Affleck offering a nuanced perspective at CNBC’s Delivering Alpha 2024 investor summit.

Key perspective: Ben Affleck, co-founder of Artists Equity production company, shared an optimistic view of AI’s role in the film industry, emphasizing its potential to enhance rather than replace human creativity.

• Affleck emphasized that AI cannot replicate the nuanced interactions between actors or the creative discernment needed in filmmaking
• He specifically pointed to visual effects as the area most likely to be disrupted by AI technology
• The actor drew a parallel between AI and craftsman-like imitation, explaining that AI essentially cross-pollinates existing content rather than creating truly original work

Technical implications: AI’s impact on filmmaking will primarily manifest in reducing production costs and streamlining technical processes.

• The technology could significantly reduce visual effects expenses, potentially disrupting the VFX industry
• AI tools may help filmmakers adjust backgrounds, modify colors, and fix mistakes without requiring expensive reshoots
• These advances could lower barriers to entry for independent filmmakers and new voices in the industry

Future possibilities: Affleck outlined several potential applications of AI in entertainment that could transform how content is created and consumed.

• He suggested AI could accelerate production schedules, potentially enabling shows like “House of the Dragon” to release two seasons annually instead of one
• The technology might eventually allow viewers to request customized episodes of their favorite shows for a fee
• AI could help rewrite or modify existing content to create alternate versions of popular shows

Industry reaction: The actor’s comments sparked diverse responses from technology and entertainment professionals on social media.

• Some praised Affleck’s perspective as a grounded take on AI’s role in filmmaking
• Critics questioned whether independent filmmakers would embrace or resist AI integration
• Several respondents challenged Affleck’s assertion that AI cannot create truly new content

Looking ahead: While AI shows promise in reducing production costs and democratizing filmmaking, the technology’s ultimate impact may depend on how the industry chooses to regulate and implement these tools, particularly regarding the balance between technical innovation and creative storytelling.