At the Cannes Film Festival, AI is the talk of the town. Laurent Sorbier believes that AI is not the death knell of cinema but represents the opportunity to push artistic creation even further.
IA, which stands for Artificial Intelligence, is everywhere in Cannes this year. It is prevalent on screens, discreet under the spotlight, not yet on the red carpet, but it is already a star in all conversations. It has become a topic that few dare to address in public but everyone talks about in private. It worries technicians and excites actors. It fascinates producers. It unsettles seasoned directors and sometimes excites their young successors.
AI is no longer a matter of speculation. It is a done deal. The vast majority of films in competition have likely used AI at least at some stage of their production. The impact of AI on production and post-production costs is starting to be truly measured.
According to a report by Bain & Company published in the Hollywood Reporter, new production technologies such as AI pre-visualization, gaming engines, and LED screens can save 5 to 10% on a $50 million film, up to 20% on a $100 million film, and 30 to 40 million dollars on a $200 million blockbuster.
AI has contributed to various aspects of filmmaking, from reconstructing archives to enhancing facial features. It has influenced voice dubbing, created digital extras, and assisted in the editing process.
The relationship between cinema and AI is being explored extensively, with debates on where the line is drawn between artistic creation and technological intervention. The World AI Film Festival recently showcased the potential of AI in film production, with thousands of films created by AI being submitted for consideration.
While some embrace the possibilities AI brings to storytelling in cinema, others, such as the French Culture Minister, have expressed concerns and limitations on AI’s role in creative endeavors. Controversies continue to arise regarding the use of AI in filmmaking, raising questions about authenticity, creativity, and ethical considerations.
Despite the uncertainties and debates surrounding AI in cinema, many believe that AI could offer a new and fertile way of storytelling in the film industry. It is seen as a modern magic trick, akin to the early days of cinema, where illusion and reality merge to captivate audiences. AI is not seen as a threat to cinema but as a potential ally in shaping the future of filmmaking.
