Amazon MGM Studios just opened an official AI Studio. This new initiative marks a distinct change for IATSE, focusing on the development of proprietary artificial intelligence tools to support television and film production planning and processes. This initiative, led by Albert Cheng, marks a significant step in Amazon’s ongoing efforts to integrate AI technology into its creative operations.
The new AI Studio specifically aims to address all four of these areas. It’s a big player on many levels, from improving character consistency between shots, to offering greater support during the pre- and post-production phases. Amazon is using AI to automate tedious tasks in a creative team’s workflow. They’re quick to point out that these tools are intended to supplement, not supplant, human talent.
The release of the AI Studio has been marked by significant layoffs at the company. In January, Amazon cut another 16,000 positions, after already cutting 14,000 workers back in October. The company has pointed to its rapid innovations in AI as a major justification for the cuts. This points to a deeper change in workforce demands as automation becomes more pervasive.
Amazon’s plan to use artificial intelligence has Hollywood buzzing. The entertainment industry is grappling with the implications of AI technology, as many worry about its potential impact on employment and creative jobs. Don’t worry, Amazon is telling everyone, the point of the AI Studio is to make people more creative, not less creative.
The tools of the AI Studio just recently wrapped up their first round, through internal testing—with the program now ready for wider application. Amazon’s “House of David” series highlights AI’s potential for production. As boggling as that sounds, that’s nothing compared to the second season, which features a whopping 350 AI-generated shots. This is an exciting glimpse into how AI can play a productive role in enhancing visual storytelling.
Amazon’s looking for creative solutions to make its TV and movie productions more efficient. Simultaneously, the company is fully committed to investing in and protecting the independence of its creative companies. The establishment of the AI Studio reflects a strategic direction towards merging technology with artistry, ensuring that human creativity remains at the forefront of production efforts.