Jerry Bruckheimer, the renowned producer behind blockbuster films like "Top Gun" and "Bad Boys," believes that artificial intelligence (AI) won't replace key crew members in the film industry. Despite acknowledging the benefits of AI, he maintains that it will complement the work of actors and other professionals rather than eliminate their roles.
"Top Gun" producer Jerry Bruckheimer has weighed in on the ongoing debate about the potential impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on the film industry, expressing confidence that key jobs won't be replaced by technology anytime soon.
In a recent interview with Fox News Digital, Bruckheimer emphasized the advantages of AI, stating that it can "make our lives easier" and enhance the movie experience for audiences by producing more realistic visuals. However, he drew the line at suggesting that AI could eliminate important positions within the industry.
"We'e certainly not going to replace actors. You're never going to replace the key crew members that we work with. (They’re) always going to be there," Bruckheimer asserted.
Bruckheimer's comments come amid concerns raised by industry professionals regarding the increasing use of AI in filmmaking. A report by The Hollywood Reporter indicated that many individuals are employing AI behind the scenes but are hesitant to acknowledge it publicly due to backlash from artists.
AI expert Marva Bailer, however, believes that AI will continue to play a role in the production process and marketing of films. Studios must find ways to transparently communicate its usage to audiences.
"Studios are public businesses, and they're looking for deep customer relationships. And their customers now are very educated on technology, and they're looking for this high level of transparency," Bailer explained.
Despite the general acceptance of AI in the film industry, two recent releases have faced criticism for their alleged use of AI-generated images. A24's "Civil War" was criticized for promotional materials that appeared to be AI-created, while "Late Night with the Devil" used AI-generated graphics for fictional talk show scenes.
However, Bailer noted that the majority of moviegoers are unaware of the specific applications of AI in filmmaking. She highlighted its potential to improve basic tasks such as correcting eye movements.
AI has been utilized in recent blockbusters like "Dune: Part Two," where a machine learning model was employed to alter the eye color of Fremen characters. In "Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga," AI was used to blend the features of Anya Taylor-Joy with child actress Alyla Browne, seamlessly transitioning between performers playing the same role.
While concerns about AI replacing jobs remain, Bailer believes that it can empower creatives by providing a starting point for their imaginations and enabling them to explore new possibilities.
"We're not going to replace everything entirely, but it's really to unlock that imagination and iteration. … But to have that starting point. That's where AI is really helping. And people that have a creative mindset are going to need to lean into that because it's a new era, and it gives them the opportunity to do work that they might not have ever imagined," Bailer remarked.
Bruckheimer's optimism aligns with the positive outlook expressed by other industry leaders. AI is seen as a tool that can enhance filmmaking practices and expand creative boundaries, while the unique contributions of human artists will continue to be indispensable.
