Films made with the help of artificial intelligence (AI) will be able to win top awards at the Oscars, according to its organisers. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences issued new rules on Monday which said the use of AI and other digital tools would "neither help nor harm the chances of achieving a nomination". Generative AI - which can create text, images, audio and video in response to simple text prompts - helped to produce some of the films awarded top industry accolades in March. But the Academy said it would still consider human involvement when selecting its winners. The Academy said its new language around eligibility for films made using generative AI tools was recommended by its Science and Technology Council. Under further rule changes announced on Monday, Academy members must now watch all nominated films in each category in order to be able to take part in the final round of voting, which decides upon winners. The use of AI in film became a hot topic after Adrian Brody took home the award for Best Actor for his role in The Brutalist at this year's Oscars ceremony in March. The movie used generative AI to improve the actor's accent when he spoke Hungarian. It then emerged similar voice-cloning technology was used to enhance singing voices in the Oscar-winning musical Emilia Perez. The technology's ability to quickly alter or match the tone and style of an artist, or perform edits such as subtly changing someone's appearance, has helped it become more popular in the production of music and film. But AI use remains controversial, and artists and actors have voiced concerns over the material used to train such tools and its impact upon their livelihoods. Actors and screenwriters previously highlighted fears about losing work to AI during the 2023 strikes in Hollywood. "If you can take my face, my body and my voice and make me say or do something that I had no choice about, that's not a good thing," actress Susan Sarandontold the BBC from a picket line. And screenwriters are concerned studios would seek to cut costs and save time by using tools like OpenAI's ChatGPT for tasks such as researching, treatment and script writing, instead of humans. Safeguards around the use of AI were established as part of the agreements reached between unions and studios that marked the end of the strikes. But while some actors have seemingly embraced the technology, others, such as Scarlett Johansson,have issued warningsabout its potential to allow abuse of their image or likeness. Animatorstold the BBC in 2024generative AI tools were not yet good enough to be able to replicate the quality of their work - certainly not to an award-winning standard. "It's like having a bad writer help you," said Jonathan Kendrick, co-founder and chairman of global streaming service Rokit Flix. "Sure it will get an outline done, but if you need something with emotional weight, an AI isn't going to get you an Oscar."
Films made with AI can win Oscars, Academy says
TruthLens AI Suggested Headline:
"Academy Confirms AI-Assisted Films Can Compete for Oscars"
Bbc News
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TruthLens AI Summary
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has announced that films produced with the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) will be eligible to compete for Oscars, stating that the use of AI will not impact the chances of a film being nominated. This decision follows the recognition of generative AI's role in enhancing films, such as its contribution to the Best Actor-winning performance of Adrian Brody in 'The Brutalist,' where AI was used to refine his Hungarian accent. The Academy's updated eligibility guidelines, developed with input from its Science and Technology Council, emphasize the importance of human involvement in the filmmaking process, indicating that while AI can assist in production, it does not replace the creative input of human artists. Additionally, the Academy has implemented new voting rules requiring members to watch all nominated films in each category before participating in the final voting round, further ensuring a thorough evaluation of the nominees.
Despite the Academy's embrace of AI technology in filmmaking, the use of such tools has sparked significant debate within the entertainment industry. Concerns have been raised by actors and screenwriters regarding the potential for AI to diminish job opportunities, particularly in light of the recent Hollywood strikes where these issues were prominently discussed. Prominent figures like Susan Sarandon and Scarlett Johansson have voiced apprehensions about the implications of AI on their likenesses and the potential for misuse. While some artists are cautiously optimistic about integrating AI into their work, others, including animators, argue that current generative AI capabilities are not yet sufficient to replicate the nuanced quality required for award-winning productions. The ongoing dialogue around AI's role in film highlights the balance that must be struck between innovation and the protection of artistic integrity, as the industry navigates this evolving landscape.
TruthLens AI Analysis
The recent announcement from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences about the eligibility of AI-assisted films for Oscars marks a significant shift in the film industry. This change reflects a growing acceptance of technology's role in creative processes, but it also stirs a complex debate regarding the implications for artists and the industry as a whole.
Implications of AI in Film Production
The Academy's new rules state that the use of AI will neither enhance nor diminish a film's chances for nomination. This sets a precedent for the integration of generative AI, which has already been employed in award-winning films to enhance performances and production quality. The mention of Adrian Brody's use of AI to improve his accent and the voice-cloning technology in "Emilia Perez" exemplifies how AI can aid creative expression. However, the Academy's emphasis on human involvement in the nomination process indicates an attempt to balance technological advancements with the value of human creativity.
Concerns Among Artists and Industry Professionals
Despite the potential benefits, there are significant concerns among artists and writers about the long-term implications of AI in film. The anxieties expressed during the Hollywood strikes highlight fears of job displacement and ethical issues surrounding the use of AI-generated content. The quote from actress Susan Sarandon encapsulates these worries, suggesting a broader unease about personal agency and the authenticity of artistic expression when technology is involved.
Public Perception and Societal Impact
This announcement aims to shape public perception positively regarding AI in the arts, presenting it as a tool for enhancement rather than replacement. However, it also risks downplaying the genuine fears that many artists have about their livelihoods. By framing the narrative around innovation and progress, the Academy may be attempting to garner support from tech-savvy audiences while potentially alienating traditionalists within the industry.
Potential Economic and Political Consequences
The integration of AI in film could have far-reaching effects on related industries, including technology, media, and entertainment. As films become more reliant on AI, companies specializing in AI technologies could see growth, influencing stock prices and market dynamics. Moreover, the ongoing discourse around AI in creative fields may prompt regulatory discussions regarding intellectual property and labor rights, affecting policy and legislation in the entertainment sector.
Target Audience and Community Response
This news is likely to resonate more with tech enthusiasts and younger audiences who are open to embracing AI advancements. Conversely, it may face resistance from established artists and traditionalists who prioritize human artistry over technological intervention. The Academy's framing of AI as an ally could be seen as an attempt to appeal to a progressive audience while attempting to mitigate backlash from dissenting voices.
Market Reactions and Financial Implications
Films that successfully integrate AI technologies may attract investors and lead to increased stock prices for companies in the entertainment and tech sectors. The potential for AI to enhance production capabilities can make certain studios more attractive to investors, with implications for market trends in the industry.
Geopolitical Context
In the grander scheme, the integration of AI in creative industries reflects broader technological shifts that could influence global power dynamics. Countries leading in AI development may gain cultural and economic advantages, shaping the future landscape of global entertainment. This news aligns with current discussions around technology's role in society, making it relevant to ongoing debates about innovation and ethics.
The coverage of this topic underscores the complex interplay between technology and the arts, revealing both opportunities and challenges. The overall reliability of the information presented appears solid, as it is grounded in statements from credible institutions like the Academy. However, the framing of AI's role may gloss over significant concerns raised by industry professionals.