Ben Affleck’s hidden AI use in new Netflix movie
In an era where artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping the landscape of filmmaking, questions about authenticity are becoming more pressing than ever. Despite the heavy involvement of technology, some creators are finding a way to maintain the distinctly human touch in their work.
This balancing act is perhaps best illustrated by actor Ben Affleck, who recently spoke about his Netflix movie Animals. Affleck acknowledged that he utilized AI for “lots of things” during the production process, yet he insists that the final product remains deeply human. When asked about this use of technology, Affleck offered a charming analogy, suggesting that the goal of filmmaking is to foster the illusion of reality. He compared the process to a magic show, noting that while you can use technological tricks, you must be careful not to break the spell and ruin the sense of genuine storytelling.
Affleck views the application of AI not as a shortcut, but as an ethical tool, emphasizing that it should be used to enhance the narrative rather than replace the human creative spark. This perspective taps into a wider industry conversation: how do we harness AI without sacrificing the emotional depth and character that defines great cinema?
The conversation around AI in entertainment is far from isolated. While some are wary, others are simply observing the ripple effects. For instance, the AI buzzword has caused some consternation among high-profile figures. The BBC boss Matt Brittin, for example, recently expressed surprise after viewing an AI-generated Doctor Who episode, acknowledging that it was “pretty good,” prompting a broader examination of what constitutes artistic merit in machine-assisted creation.
The pushback against uncritical AI use is also evident in the creative community. A Resident Evil artist, for example, firmly denied any AI accusations regarding their artwork, confirming that all the stunning visuals seen in the franchise were created by hand. This highlights a growing stance that creativity, even when utilizing new tools, must remain grounded in human execution.
Even major upcoming projects are taking a measured approach. The Marvel show VisionQuest, which features numerous robots and androids, has explicitly rejected the use of generative AI in its creation, though the showrunner plans to address the broader impact of these technologies moving forward.
Animals, starring Affleck alongside Gillian Anderson, Steven Yeun, and Kerry Washington, is set to stream on Netflix starting October 9. It stands as a compelling example of how technological innovation can be woven into a narrative, provided the human element remains at the center of the story.
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