Peter Jackson, renowned filmmaker, addressed AI's impact on filmmaking during a talk at the Cannes Film Festival, asserting that it's just another tool, dependent on the user's creativity.
AI in Filmmaking
Speaking on Wednesday morning at Cannes, Jackson remarked, “AI used in the right way, it’s just a tool like any other tool.” He emphasized that the quality of films created with AI hinges on the creator's imagination, saying, “Some people will make really, really great films, and some people will do the exact same process, and their film will be crap — just like normal films.”
Jackson likened AI to earlier film technologies like stop-motion, used in films such as the original King Kong and Ray Harryhausen's movies. “Those were done with stop-motion by a person moving a rubber creature,” he said. “Why shouldn’t somebody on a computer using AI software be able to create their own imagery?”
Honors and Highlights
At Cannes to receive an honorary Palme d’Or, Jackson participated in a discussion covering his career, from splatter classics like Bad Taste to the Lord of the Rings series, and recent works like The Beatles: Get Back. Supported by Elijah Wood, Jackson praised the actor's optimism during the challenging shoot of the Lord of the Rings trilogy.
“I would show up on set and he would be relentlessly cheerful every single day,” Jackson recalled, appreciating Wood's collaborative spirit.
Future Projects
Jackson provided updates on his Tintin project, Andy Serkis’ The Hunt for Gollum, and a planned World War II film about the Dambusters Raid. “We’re actually writing the next Tintin film now,” he revealed, noting his collaboration with Fran Walsh. On Serkis' project, Jackson expressed confidence in Serkis directing, given his deep understanding of Gollum's character.
Jackson also discussed his aspirations for a film on Operation Chastise, stating, “The true story is actually much more interesting.” He hopes to bring this untold story to the screen soon.
AI and Ethical Considerations
Jackson stressed the importance of consent in AI applications, especially regarding actor likenesses. “The only thing with AI that I think is absolutely critical,” he noted, “is that you don’t do an AI version of an actor without their own approval.” He compared it to licensing music or books, underscoring the need for approval from living individuals or their estates.
Jackson concluded by reiterating his view of AI as a special effect, emphasizing straightforward ethical practices: “I don’t see the concern about it.”
Source: https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/peter-jackson-talks-ai-filmmaking-in-cannes-a-tool-like-any-other-1236594608/
