Concerns About AI’s Impact on Hollywood

A recent piece highlights a troubling future for Hollywood as AI technology continues to evolve. The piece suggests that many in the industry, perhaps feeling rather special, may be in for a rough ride, especially with innovations like “Dream Machine,” which debuted last year and offers new film-making possibilities. Imagine just calling up a scene of “a cowboy riding a velociraptor through Times Square”—that’s where we’re headed.

But it doesn’t stop there. The tool “Modify Video,” launched in June, allows users to alter existing footage by simply uploading a clip or photo, describing what changes they’d like to see. Want to transform a street scene into a snowy landscape? That’s possible now, or you could even turn someone into a medieval knight or a banana.

Currently, AI-generated clips are somewhat limited, typically lasting only about ten seconds due to computing power. However, as pointed out, this aligns with the average shot length in films. The end goal appears ambitious—to create fully personalized, on-demand entertainment with the capability to generate two hours of video for each person daily.

If this vision comes to fruition, it could mark the end of traditional Hollywood as we know it. Suddenly, there may be no need for studios, VFX teams, or even performers. The creative process might become accessible to anyone with an internet connection and a vision.

Some might scoff at these claims, feeling they’re overblown. But a glance at the music industry reveals a similar trajectory. With fewer iconic acts dominating the scene and a general fragmentation of the market, it raises the question: will Hollywood face the same fate?

The key to survival might lie in storytelling. While AI can mimic aspects of creativity, it can’t replicate the human experience and the inspiration that drives compelling narratives. Quality storytelling is challenging, and few people excel at it; those who do often put in significant effort.

Amid the looming presence of AI, the cost of film and television production remains high. Once that barrier diminishes, the focus will shift to finding talented writers who can craft engaging stories. If this doesn’t happen, AI might become the dominant force in Hollywood, overshadowing traditional methods and creativity.