Gal Gadot, Casey Affleck, and Pete Davidson Star in Film Inspired by Snake Oil Phenomenon

Hollywood studios are clearly eager to integrate AI into film production. However, the limitations of this technology become obvious when put into practice. It’s also quite expensive, posing a barrier even for committed companies. That said, there’s potential for a modestly effective model to find its value. Doug Liman, known for directing The Bourne Identity and Jumper, is showcasing his AI-generated film at Cannes this year, searching for a buyer. This project revolves around Bitcoin.

According to a report from The Wrap, the thriller titled Bitcoin: Kill Satoshi features Gal Gadot playing a model-turned-reporter. She’s recruited by a cryptocurrency billionaire, portrayed by Pete Davidson, to delve into the life of a doctor, played by Casey Affleck, who might be linked to Bitcoin’s enigmatic creator, Satoshi Nakamoto. While the actors and costumes are real, the lighting, sets, and post-production elements are all created through generative AI.

Ryan Kavanaugh mentioned that they decided to employ AI right from the start. “We assessed the costs involved and ended up with a budget exceeding $300 million. We needed around 200 locations worldwide, from Antarctica to Antigua to Las Vegas, which proved unfeasible. Eventually, we acknowledged that we could cut costs by utilizing some AI tools available,” he explained.

In an attempt to balance opinions from skeptics and labor groups, the Bitcoin production employs about 200 people, half of whom are actors. While green screen technology has been standard for a while, this project stands out as 55 “AI artists” will handle the transition from green screens to the final visuals. Producer Lawrence Gray stated that it’s crucial to use AI “the right way.”

Even if the results impress stakeholders, advocates of AI know that public perception isn’t particularly favorable, nor are people necessarily keen to pay for it. Recently, a significant layoff at Disney hit Marvel Studios particularly hard, affecting its effects team. It seems likely that studios are pondering future production strategies.

The current approach focuses on marketing AI’s potential while seeking partnerships with investors, even if the technology doesn’t deliver everything it promises. This strategy is reminiscent of the move made by Casey Affleck’s brother Ben, who just last month secured a deal worth $600 million with Netflix. It’s particularly intriguing that this film revolves around the true identity of Nakamoto—an exploration that many might find misleading. Recent reports have suggested that British computer scientist Adam Back could be the elusive figure behind Bitcoin.