Artificial intelligence is reshaping industries globally, and Hollywood is no exception. Oscar-winning actor and filmmaker Ben Affleck addressed the topic at the CNBC Delivering Alpha investor summit, offering a unique perspective on AI's influence on filmmaking.
Affleck expressed confidence that movies will be among the last creative endeavors to be overtaken by AI, stating:
“AI can write you excellent imitative verse that sounds Elizabethan. It cannot write you Shakespeare.”
He acknowledged AI's potential to lower production costs by automating labor-intensive tasks, thus making filmmaking more accessible to emerging creators. Affleck sees this as a significant step forward, allowing more diverse voices to enter the industry.
However, he also highlighted a fundamental flaw in AI's creative capabilities. Unlike human creators, AI primarily synthesizes existing material, struggling to produce genuinely original ideas.
AI's influence in Hollywood is already apparent. From advanced CGI techniques to script drafting tools, AI has become an integral part of filmmaking. Despite this, no feature-length film has been fully AI-generated, and many industry professionals echo Affleck's belief that creativity remains firmly in human hands.
As technology evolves, the debate over its role in storytelling continues. Affleck's optimism underscores the importance of balancing innovation with human ingenuity, ensuring art retains its unique emotional depth.
Ben Affleck's stance on AI is both reassuring and thought-provoking. His assertion that creativity cannot be automated resonates strongly, especially in an era where technology often feels overwhelming. While AI's role in democratizing filmmaking is promising, it's crucial to address concerns about originality and ethics.
That said, his vision of AI reducing barriers to entry is inspiring. Independent filmmakers often struggle with high costs, and AI could genuinely level the playing field. Still, maintaining a clear boundary where technology supports rather than replaces artistry is essential to preserving the soul of cinema.
Do you agree with Ben Affleck that AI will enhance rather than replace creativity in filmmaking? How do you see AI shaping the future of movies?
