Tim Burton, one of Hollywood's most distinct filmmakers, has expressed his disapproval of AI recreations of his unique style, criticizing them for lacking human touch. Known for his visually captivating movies such as Edward Scissorhands, Corpse Bride, and Alice in Wonderland, among others, Burton is currently working on his next project, Beetlejuice 2.
In a recent interview with The Independent, Burton shared his thoughts on the ongoing debate surrounding AI in Hollywood. While he recognizes that some AI creations are impressive, the filmmaker is straightforward about how these recreations of his work and style leave him feeling. Read Burton's complete comment below.
"They utilized artificial intelligence to recreate Disney characters in my own likeness! The sensation that it evokes is truly indescribable. It brought to mind the belief held in certain cultures that capturing one's image robs them of their essence.
The impact is such that it extracts a part of your essence or consciousness, leaving one unsettled, particularly when it directly pertains to oneself. It's akin to a mechanical being stripping away your humanity, your very essence."
Does AI Have A Place In Hollywood?
Currently, both the WGA and SAG-AFTRA are striking, effectively halting activity in Hollywood. The use of AI in various stages of development and production has become a central concern, leading writers and actors to demand stringent rules and regulations to safeguard their livelihoods. The future of agreements concerning AI remains uncertain; however, it is evident that this technology will increasingly shape the filmmaking process. Among the concerns raised by actors is the perpetual use of their likenesses in films, which currently lacks adequate compensation provisions.
If agreements are made about compensation, it is highly probable that AI-generated background actors will become more prevalent in Hollywood films. AI and machine learning are also set to greatly transform the post-production process, especially in relation to visual effects and CGI. Despite Burton's apparent disapproval of AI recreations of his work, it is very likely that this technology will have a significant impact on Hollywood in the future. Hopefully, comprehensive agreements can be reached to ensure that the artistic contributions of humans remain of utmost importance throughout the filmmaking process.