Breaking Bad Creator Vince Gilligan's Scathing Critique of AI Sends Shockwaves

Highlights

Vince Gilligan, the mastermind behind Breaking Bad, expresses his discontent with the implementation of artificial intelligence in the entertainment sector, asserting that it stifles artistic ingenuity and shamelessly borrows from the original creations of others.

Though there are benefits to AI in plot development, Gilligan argues that it cannot replicate the enchantment of the human mind and should not be a substitute for fiction writers. Gilligan's concern arises from the possibility of aspiring writers losing opportunities as producers prioritize cost-cutting measures, but his perspective may shift if AI proves successful in expanding the world of Breaking Bad.

Breaking Bad creator Vince Gilligan expressed his disapproval of the entertainment industry's increasing reliance on artificial intelligence. He believes that AI should not hinder individuals from utilizing their own creativity to shape their stories, rather than relying on machines.

Gilligan went as far as drawing a comparison between AI-generated screenwriting and toasters making toast, highlighting the idea that the former lacks originality. He also called out wealthy Hollywood executives for taking shortcuts in order to accumulate more wealth. Furthermore, Gilligan accused Artificial Intelligence of plagiarizing the work of others. It is important to note that Gilligan's concerns with AI are primarily centered around its impact on the field of creative writing rather than AI as a whole.

The Breaking Bad creator expressed his thoughts on AI during an interview with Variety. According to him, the recent advancements in AI are nothing more than a giant plagiarism machine. He compared ChatGPT, an AI language model, to a toaster that is aware it is making toast. Gilligan believes that, at present, AI lacks true intelligence and is merely impressive marketing. He predicts that while there may be a point in the future where AI becomes a genuine threat, at the moment it is only capable of producing plagiarized content. Gilligan acknowledged its usefulness in applications such as writing legal briefs, but he does not believe it will replace fiction writers.

Gilligan makes a valid point about artificial intelligence lacking the same magic as a human mind. However, there are advantages to having AI develop the plot of a story instead of relying on a human showrunner. Unlike humans, AI is not prone to writer's block and does not require a team or hierarchy to generate ideas. Gilligan reportedly faced such challenges while working on Breaking Bad, according to a former writer.

It is understandable that Gilligan feels frustrated. It is unfair for a computer-generated program to disrupt someone's livelihood simply because Hollywood wants to cut costs. Fortunately, Gilligan's position is secure as he has created two highly acclaimed shows. He is unlikely to lose his job in Hollywood any time soon. Moreover, Breaking Bad has had a significant influence on similar shows even after its conclusion. However, countless aspiring writers may have their dreams shattered as wealthy producers seize every opportunity to save money.

If artificial intelligence proves to be a successful means of entertainment, Gilligan might reconsider his position as it could potentially allow him to expand the Breaking Bad universe. However, Gilligan has established himself as a highly creative individual who operates on his own terms. The success of Better Call Saul can be attributed to Gilligan's storytelling abilities rather than its connection to Breaking Bad. While fans would appreciate more stories, they also want to experience them from Gilligan's unique perspective. While artificial intelligence may not be able to replicate Gilligan's creative magic, it could serve as a source of inspiration for him.

Breaking Bad is available for streaming on Netflix.

Source: Variety