The filmmakers behind the Oscar-contending film "The Brutalist" used AI to alter actor dialogue and create images, raising questions about the evolving role of AI in filmmaking.
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| The filmmakers behind "The Brutalist" used AI to improve dialogue accuracy and enhance visual effects while navigating the ethical considerations of AI in filmmaking. Image Courtesy: Engadget |
Hollywood, Los Angeles, California, USA --- January 21, 2025:
The filmmakers behind "The Brutalist," an A24-distributed film considered a potential Oscar contender, employed AI technology during its production. This revelation comes from editor Dávid Jancsó, who shared in an interview with RedShark News that AI was used to alter actor dialogue and create some of the film's imagery.
To ensure authentic Hungarian pronunciation for actors Adrien Brody and Felicity Jones, the production utilized AI technology from Respeecher to adjust their dialogue. While this could theoretically be achieved through traditional dialogue editing, Jancsó explained that the extensive amount of Hungarian dialogue necessitated a faster and more efficient solution.
Furthermore, generative AI was employed to assist in the creation of architectural drawings featured in the film's epilogue. These decisions were driven by the film's relatively modest budget of under $10 million, considering its scale, star-studded cast, and elaborate production design.
The use of AI in filmmaking remains a contentious issue, particularly following recent Hollywood strikes that highlighted concerns about AI replacing human workers. However, as demonstrated by "The Brutalist," AI can be used in various ways, some more controversial than others. In this case, the primary aim was to enhance the film's authenticity and efficiency, not to replace the creative contributions of the actors or the film crew.
While "The Brutalist" may be an early example, it's likely that the use of AI in filmmaking will continue to evolve as the technology advances. As studios seek to optimize production costs and explore new creative avenues, AI tools will likely play an increasingly significant role in the filmmaking process.