CineD Focus Check Ep25 – Are You Afraid of AI in Filmmaking?

by Jackie SchwarzingerAugust 15^th, 2024

In this episode, Johnnie talks to Mascha Deikova about the rapid development of AI and its potential impact on the filmmaking industry. Mascha is a filmmaker based in Austria and an active contributor to CineD. Instead of fearing AI, she chooses to understand and integrate it into her creative process. But is she right not to be afraid? Tune in to the discussion on the impact AI is having on the filmmaking industry, where they think it’s leading us, and their take on the most important question – Should we be afraid of AI in filmmaking?

Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by FilmConvert. Check it out at [16:24].

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Embracing AI in Filmmaking

In the rapidly evolving world of technology, AI has become a hot topic, especially in creative industries like filmmaking. In this episode, Johnnie sits down with Mascha Deikova, a filmmaker based in Austria and a contributor to CineD, to explore the complex relationship between AI and the art of storytelling.

Based on recent comments we have received when writing about AI, you could say Mascha is not your typical filmmaker. She’s someone who has chosen to face AI head-on rather than shy away from it. While many in the industry are concerned about the potential threats AI poses (like the loss of creative jobs or the homogenization of content), Mascha sees things a bit differently. She believes that understanding AI is key to harnessing its potential and ensuring it becomes a tool that enhances, rather than diminishes, creative expression.

Big studios vs. independent filmmakers

Johnnie and Mascha delve into the various aspects of AI in filmmaking. They discuss the potential threats, but they also explore the benefits. Mascha’s approach is clear: rather than fearing AI, she advocates for learning about it and finding ways to integrate it into the creative process. But what about Johnnie? Well, he seems quite relaxed since it’s important to differentiate between big studios and independent filmmakers. While he also enjoys using AI tools like audio enhancement, music libraries, and such, he’s not quite convinced yet that he will be out of a job anytime soon.

Timestamps & chapters

00:35 – Intro
1:49 – Mascha and her interest in AI (find her articles here)
6:16 – Negative comments we get when we write about AI
7:26 – Why are so many working in the film industry afraid of AI?
8:40 – Will AI replace us?
12:10 – Some artists’ reactions to Midjourney & co
15:43 – Big studios vs. independent filmmakers
21:09 – Does Mascha have a plan if AI takes over?
22:33 – What does Johnnie think of AI?
29:52 – Sora & other video generators
33:44 – Conclusions

We hope you enjoyed this episode. If you have feedback, comments, or suggestions, write to us at [email protected].

We know that AI is a controversial topic. Yet, we believe it is here to stay. Sign off in the comments, and let us know what you think!