Kevin O'Leary: Innovating Film Production with AI Technology Kevin O'Leary, a prominent entrepreneur and investor, envisions a transformative future for the film industry through the implementation of artificial intelligence (AI) technology. He believes that AI can dramatically lower film production costs by efficiently replacing human extras, streamlining the filmmaking process, and optimizing budget allocations. By harnessing the power of AI, filmmakers can enhance their creative...
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Kevin O’Leary advocates for AI in film industry
Kevin O’Leary, a prominent figure from the television show Shark Tank, recently proposed that the film industry could benefit from integrating artificial intelligence (AI) for background roles. In discussing his upcoming film, Marty Supreme, O’Leary emphasized that the use of AI-generated extras could significantly reduce costs, allowing filmmakers to increase their output.
During an interview on the podcast The Hill’s World of Travel, O’Leary examined the financial challenges associated with traditional casting techniques. He noted that each scene in Marty Supreme typically required approximately 150 human extras, who needed to remain attentive and dressed for up to 18 hours, even when their presence was not crucial to the film’s storyline.
The financial burden of human extras
The costs associated with hiring human extras can reach millions of dollars, a figure deemed excessive by filmmaker O’Leary. He proposed that filmmakers could streamline their budgets by replacing these background roles with AI agents.
“Imagine if you could take that same production budget, which might have reached $90 million, and reduce it to only $35 million,” he stated. “This financial shift could potentially allow directors to create two films instead of one.”
O’Leary’s assertion prompts a reevaluation of traditional practices in an era marked by rapid technological advancement. His suggestion is grounded in reality, as he highlights the rise of virtual actors. He specifically mentions an AI character named Tilly Norwood, recently showcased at the Zurich Summit. Tilly, according to O’Leary, can seamlessly fit into any role without the need for breaks, food, or sleep, positioning her as a compelling alternative to human actors.
The reaction from industry professionals
Despite potential benefits, the notion of AI replacing human extras has faced significant resistance. The SAG-AFTRA union, representing performers, criticized this idea, arguing that it threatens the livelihoods of real actors and diminishes the value of human artistry in the film industry. However, O’Leary remains optimistic, suggesting that AI could play a beneficial role in specific contexts, particularly where an actor’s presence is not crucial to the narrative.
“An extra is a perfect application for AI technology,” he stated, emphasizing that the visual presence of extras does not necessarily require them to be human. He further explained that employing AI could enhance a film’s artistic quality by allowing directors to concentrate on main performances while preserving a rich background environment.
Exploring the future of AI in entertainment
In addition to his role as an extra, O’Leary has invested in the development of an AI version of himself. He is currently working on a digital representation of his persona, which he aims to refine during his upcoming trip to Abu Dhabi. This initiative underscores a significant trend within the entertainment industry, where AI technology continues to advance rapidly.
O’Leary stated, “We’re on the brink of a new era,” highlighting the swift pace of AI developments. He pointed out that differentiating between real and AI-generated voices is increasingly difficult, as new iterations of AI models are released frequently. “The next version of AI Kevin will be virtually indistinguishable from the real thing,” he asserted, emphasizing the potential ramifications of this technology for the future of entertainment.
Implications for filmmakers
Kevin O’Leary’s film Marty Supreme is set for release on Christmas Day, intensifying discussions about the role of AI in filmmaking. With a budget reportedly exceeding $60 million, it marks A24’s most expensive feature to date. The film, set in the 1950s, follows a determined ping-pong prodigy portrayed by Timothée Chalamet, with Gwyneth Paltrow playing his romantic interest.
O’Leary’s support for integrating AI in film extras raises important questions about the evolving landscape of the entertainment industry. While the potential for cost savings and enhanced production capabilities is significant, it is essential to address the implications for human performers. As technology progresses, maintaining a balance between innovation and artistic integrity will be critical.
