Rise of AI Threatens Stunt Performers’ Jobs in Hollywood
The rapid advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) are raising concerns among Hollywood’s stunt performers as their jobs are increasingly threatened by the use of AI technology. Previously, studios used computer-generated background figures to reduce the number of actors required for battle scenes. However, with the rise of AI, cheaper and more powerful techniques are being explored to create elaborate action sequences, such as car chases and shootouts, without the need for human performers.
Stunt work, which has been a time-honored tradition in Hollywood, is now at risk of shrinking significantly. The technology is progressing at an exponential rate, and this has created a sense of fear among industry professionals. They are worried that producers might replace them with highly realistic digital replicas, created using advanced AI techniques.
The use of 3D body scans is becoming increasingly common on sets, with performers being asked to participate without fully understanding how or when their images will be used. These scans could potentially be used to create detailed digital replicas that can perform any action or deliver any dialogue as desired by the creators. This has led to concerns that stunt performers playing nondescript roles, like pedestrians in car chases, could be replaced by virtual avatars.
Director Neill Blomkamp believes that AI’s role in generating images from scratch is still hard to comprehend. He foresees a future where AI can generate photo-realistic footage of high-speed crashes or other complex action sequences based on the director’s instructions alone. This would eliminate the need for CG effects, stunts, and physical cameras. It would be a game-changer.
The ongoing strike by the Screen Actors Guild (SAG-AFTRA) and Hollywood writers adds another layer of complexity. SAG-AFTRA recently warned that studios intend to create realistic digital replicas of performers, using them indefinitely in various projects, while only paying for one day’s work. The studios, however, dispute these claims and argue that they have offered rules that include informed consent and compensation.
Despite the rapid advancements in AI, there is still an undeniable human element that contributes to the success of action films. The audience can often detect when computer-generated effects are used instead of real stunts. This is exemplified by Tom Cruise’s recent Top Gun and Mission Impossible sequels, where he insists on using real stunt performers and doing real stunts. The authenticity resonates with viewers on a subconscious level.
While the future of stunt work may involve blending human performers with AI and visual effects (VFX), it is clear that the industry is undergoing a significant transformation. The use of AI will undoubtedly lead to a smaller and more precise workforce. However, the complete elimination of stunt work is highly unlikely.
Stunt performers are experiencing mixed emotions about this impending change. Some are apprehensive and worried, while others believe that this evolution will open up new possibilities for creative storytelling and exciting action sequences. Nonetheless, it is certain that AI will fundamentally change not only Hollywood but society as a whole. The world we know is on the verge of transformation.
