The film industry is facing significant scrutiny over its increasing reliance on artificial intelligence, with former Friends star Lisa Kudrow voicing strong concerns regarding Tom Hanks' latest project, Here. In a recent episode of the Armchair Expert podcast hosted by Dax Shepard, Kudrow described the film as “an endorsement for AI,” warning of potential future implications for actors, particularly those starting their careers.
Here, directed by esteemed filmmaker Robert Zemeckis, features Hanks alongside his Forrest Gump co-star Robin Wright, portraying a married couple entwined in a narrative that spans various periods in a single location. A key element of the film is its innovative use of an AI-driven tool known as Metaphysic Live, which allows for real-time de-aging and face-swapping of actors. Kudrow raised concerns surrounding this technology, questioning its long-term impact on the creative landscape. “What work will there be for human beings?" she posed. “Then what? There’ll be some kind of living stipend for people, [as] you won’t have to work? How can it possibly be enough?”
Zemeckis has publicly endorsed Metaphysic, the company behind the innovative facial technology. He noted that after experimenting with various forms of face replacement and de-aging technologies, Metaphysic emerged as a leader in producing feature-quality AI-generated content. Visual effects supervisor Kevin Baillie echoed this sentiment, highlighting the capability of Metaphysic’s technology, which enables actors to see AI-generated visuals of themselves as younger versions, thereby acting as a "youth mirror" for real-time character choices.
However, the integration of AI technologies into film production has sparked broader discussions about the sustainability of traditional acting roles. Kudrow's comments resonate with ongoing concerns within the industry. The fears regarding the unchecked exploitation of AI were highlighted during the writers' and actors' strikes earlier in 2023, where protections against such technological advancements were pivotal in reaching resolutions. Despite the agreements made, concerns linger about the effectiveness of these safeguards. Matthew Modine, known for his role in Stranger Things, described the situation as witnessing an "AI tsunami crashing upon the shores of the entertainment industry."
As the conversation surrounding AI automation continues to evolve, the implications for actors, filmmakers, and the industry at large remain complex and far-reaching. The rapid development of AI technologies like Metaphysic Live has the potential to reshape the creative landscape, raising critical questions about the future of human roles in filmmaking and the overall dynamics of the entertainment industry.
Source: Noah Wire Services