Last summer, Amazon MGM Studios established a dedicated AI Studio aimed at developing proprietary AI tools to enhance the efficiency of TV and film production, particularly in areas such as ensuring character consistency across shots and facilitating both pre- and post-production processes.
As reported by Reuters, these innovative tools are now set to progress beyond internal testing. Starting in March, Amazon will initiate a closed beta program, inviting select industry partners to experience its AI offerings.
Amazon expects to provide initial results from the program by May. However, the company opted not to disclose further information regarding the developments when contacted by TechCrunch for comment.
The AI Studio is collaborating with distinguished producers, including Robert Stromberg, recognized for “Maleficent,” Kunal Nayyar from “The Big Bang Theory,” and former Pixar animator Colin Brady, to ensure optimal implementation of these technologies. Additionally, Amazon is leveraging the capabilities of Amazon Web Services and plans to collaborate with various large language model (LLM) providers.
Albert Cheng, who leads the AI Studios initiative, emphasized that the aim is to assist creative teams rather than replace them. The focus remains on enhancing efficiency and reducing costs while safeguarding intellectual property and ensuring that AI-generated content is not integrated into other AI models. An illustrative example is Amazon’s “House of David” series, which incorporated 350 AI-generated shots in its second season.
Nevertheless, the increasing integration of AI in Hollywood has sparked significant debate. Many industry professionals express concerns regarding job security, creativity, and the future landscape of filmmaking.
Discussions surrounding AI are intensifying as more companies explore these new technologies. Notably, Netflix has also embraced AI, with co-CEO Ted Sarandos revealing that its series “The Eternaut” utilized generative AI to create a scene involving a building collapse.
In recent years, Amazon has pointed to its advancements in AI as a contributing factor to workforce reductions. The company recently announced the elimination of 16,000 positions in January, following 14,000 job cuts last October.
About the Author
