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Philip Levens Shares Insights Into AI, Actors, and the Future of Filmmaking


The Financial Attraction of AI

Published on August 20, 2024

For independent filmmakers, there is no denying that artificial intelligence has its appeal. Film and TV production costs usually reach their peak where talent, location, and equipment are concerned. AI could change this status quo forever.

Virtual Sets and Locations

By using virtual sets, production companies can save on costs associated with scouting for locations, constructing them, and even transportation. This is good news, especially for period pieces or fantastic worlds that would otherwise be too expensive to create.

Digital Actors

Even though there are cases where they do not completely replace human actors, AI-generated doubles for humans or artificial characters can be used for complex or dangerous stunts, reducing both risk and expenses. Besides, AI also helps in casting since it provides data on audience preferences.

Post-Production Efficiency

Philip Levens explains that Artificial Intelligence can make the post-production process easier by speeding up editing and visual effects, among other things. This leads to faster turnaround time and lower labor costs.

A Critical factor that’s crucial for the successful integration of AI into films and television navigates the Uncanny Valley. It is an unsettling feeling that arises when something looks almost human but not really. While advancements in AI have minimized this gap, it is still a major obstacle.

To overcome this uncanny valley, there has to be a delicate balance between realism and stylization. Even if animated characters have some flaws, audiences may accept them even though they do not extend the same tolerance to human-like AI. As a result of continuing progress in artificial intelligence technology, we can expect more persuasive digital performances that unite humans and machines together more closely than ever before.

Possible Drawbacks and Advantages

It is evident that when it comes to filmmaking, AI has clearly defined benefits, but at the same time, there are also possible disadvantages. Depending too much on AI might inhibit creativity and lead to uniformity in terms of appearance and feel. Furthermore, there is an ethical issue regarding the use of deep fakes generated by AI, which can be misused.

Nonetheless, Philip Levens suggests that AI may prove to be an effective means of trial-and-error and a tool for stimulating creativity. Filmmakers have the opportunity to explore novel narrative patterns that they never thought about or may reach their viewers differently than ever before. If filmmakers consider the pros and cons of AI properly, they will be able to take advantage of its possibilities while minimizing dangers.

Artificial intelligence is a great tool for most movies and TV shows today. The industry has not fully explored possibilities to lower costs or create creative novelties. There will be more emphasis on this in the future as technology advances. Nonetheless, it’s important that filmmakers find a suitable way of integrating human artistry with machine efficiency in their films.

Technology Reporter