Oscar Winner Ben Affleck shared his insights on the impact of AI on the film industry. He believes that AI is a powerful tool that will revolutionise filmmaking, but it won't replace human creativity.
Speaking at the 14th CNBC Delivery Alpha Investor Summit, Ben Affleck argues that AI, for now, excels at replicating existing content rather than generating original ideas.
He compares AI to a craftsman who can learn a technique by observing and imitating, but lacks the artistic vision to create something truly new.
According to Affleck, "AI can write you excellent imitative verse that sounds a little bit, then it cannot write you Shakespeare".
AI's strength lies in its ability to automate tedious and expensive tasks, thereby lowering production costs and barriers to entry for aspiring filmmakers. Affleck predicts that this will lead to an increase in the volume of content produced, potentially giving rise to a scenario where viewers can request personalised episodes of their favourite shows.
However, Affleck maintains that AI will not replace the core creative aspects of filmmaking. He highlights that the ability to discern good ideas, construct a compelling narrative, and imbue a film with artistic taste are qualities that currently elude AI. He asserts that while AI can enhance visual effects and streamline production processes, it cannot replicate the human touch that brings a story to life.
Affleck's perspective is echoed in a Hacker News discussion, where users debate the potential of AI in creative fields. Some argue that AI will eventually surpass human capabilities, while others believe that the essence of art lies in the imperfections and unique perspectives of human creators.
While acknowledging the transformative potential of AI, Affleck remains optimistic about the future of human-driven filmmaking. He believes that AI will ultimately serve as a complementary tool, empowering filmmakers to realise their creative visions more efficiently and effectively. He envisions a future where AI enables personalised content creation, similar to how fans can now create their own Iron Man videos using readily available costumes and tools.
Affleck's perspective on the future of film in the age of AI is both pragmatic and hopeful. He acknowledges the disruption that AI will bring, particularly for jobs in visual effects, but also sees it as an opportunity to democratise filmmaking and unlock new creative possibilities. His insights offer a balanced view of how AI might reshape the industry, leaving room for both excitement and cautious optimism.
