Netflix Buys Startup That Modifies Footage Using AI

"Netflix is now offering up to $600 million to buy InterPositive, an AI moviemaking company founded by actor Ben Affleck. Basically, the company offers AI software that modifies existing footage, a capability that clearly has Netflix intrigued as a low-cost alternative to special effects. According to Bloomberg, noted film director David Fincher has already used the tools for an upcoming project starring Brad Pitt."

"On-screen performers and voice actors have also spent many months at the bargaining table with studios over concerns that their likeness and voices could be used without their consent. The persistent controversy surrounding the use of AI in Hollywood hasn't dissuaded executives from striking deals with AI companies."

"Walt Disney, for instance, signed a 'landmark agreement' with OpenAI to integrate generative AI into its business last year, including a $1 billion equity investment in the Sam Altman-led company. Netflix's latest deal with Affleck's AI startup is unlikely to assuage ongoing fears that Hollywood will leverage AI to undermine the work of human actors."

Hollywood studios are aggressively pursuing AI acquisitions and partnerships despite significant labor concerns. The Writers Guild of America and performers' unions are negotiating expanded protections against unauthorized use of AI for likenesses and voices. Netflix is acquiring InterPositive, an AI moviemaking company founded by Ben Affleck, for up to $600 million to reduce special effects costs. Director David Fincher has already used InterPositive's tools for an upcoming Brad Pitt project. Disney similarly invested $1 billion in OpenAI for generative AI integration. These major deals signal studios' commitment to AI cost-cutting measures, though Affleck frames the technology as enhancing storytelling rather than replacing human creativity.

Read at Futurism