Disney’s Exploration of AI Sparks Debate Among Writers and Actors
Disney, known for its successful movies like Star Wars and Indiana Jones, is delving further into the realm of artificial intelligence (AI), much to the dismay of Hollywood writers and actors. Although the entertainment conglomerate has created a task force to study AI and its potential applications, there are concerns about the exploitation of this technology in the industry.
The task force, initiated earlier this year, aims to develop AI applications in-house and establish partnerships with startups. As evidence of its commitment, Disney has 11 job openings specifically seeking candidates with expertise in artificial intelligence and machine learning. These positions encompass various segments of the company, ranging from Walt Disney Studios to theme parks, engineering groups, television, and advertising.
While Disney has declined to comment on its AI endeavors, an internal source, who wished to remain anonymous due to the sensitivity of the subject, believes that legacy media companies must embrace AI to avoid obsolescence. This source suggests that AI could help control the soaring costs of movie and television production by finding ways to reduce expenses. With budgets reaching up to $300 million for major film releases, such as Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny or The Little Mermaid, cost savings through AI implementation could have a significant impact.
The potential applications for AI within Disney’s parks business are also intriguing. AI has the capability to enhance customer support and create unique interactions, according to a former Disney Imagineer and a second source. For example, Project Kiwi utilized machine learning techniques to bring Baby Groot, a popular character from Guardians of the Galaxy, to life as a small robot. This robot can recognize and navigate objects in its environment and is expected to eventually interact with park guests.
However, AI has become a contentious topic within Hollywood. Writers and actors perceive it as a threat to their job security, and it has become a central issue in the ongoing contract negotiations between the Screen Actors Guild and the Writers Guild of America, both of which are currently on strike. Disney has been cautious in its public discussions about AI, likely due to the potential impact on jobs within the industry.
In the recent Indiana Jones movie, visual effects supervisors faced the arduous task of digitally altering actor Harrison Ford to appear younger. Over 100 artists spent three years meticulously working on the de-aging process to ensure that Ford’s character appeared as his younger self in the film’s early scenes.
As Disney continues its exploration of AI, the company must navigate the delicate balance between harnessing the technology’s potential benefits and addressing the concerns of writers and actors who fear the consequences for their professions. By embracing AI, Disney hopes to optimize production costs and enhance customer experiences, but the broader implications for the entertainment industry remain uncertain.
In conclusion, Disney’s expansion into the realm of AI has ignited a heated debate among writers, actors, and industry professionals. While the technology offers exciting possibilities for cost savings and improved interactions, there are genuine concerns about the impact on jobs and creativity. As Disney continues its AI research, it will be essential for the company to address these concerns while leveraging the benefits that AI can bring to its entertainment empire.
