AI Film Production
Pop star Grimes is set to appear in the upcoming sci-fi film Gods Don’t Give Gifts, which is marketed as the first AI-generated movie to receive a theatrical release. Scheduled for December 4th, the project serves as a test case for the commercial viability of AI-driven filmmaking, with Grimes providing both her likeness and vocal performance.
Grimes Joins Cast of AI-Generated Feature
The film is a sci-fi anthology that explores themes of consciousness and transhumanism, set in a future where human bodies are considered disposable.
Industry Implications
The film is produced by AI studio Fable and directed by Jack London, known as Gossip Goblin. Fable suggests that using AI to synthesize an actor's likeness and voice will become increasingly common in animated features, allowing performers to extend their presence into digital roles.
The narrative themes of the anthology align with Grimes' previous artistic focus on transhumanism and artificial intelligence. Beyond this film, she is also developing an AI-themed album titled Psy Opera.
The release of the film follows a period of significant industry hype surrounding AI in Hollywood. However, previous attempts to utilize generative AI for feature-length storytelling, such as adaptations of The Odyssey, have faced criticism for failing to demonstrate the technology as a effective narrative tool.
While there has been plenty of hype around the potential for AI in Hollywood, there’s yet to be a project that shows that the technology is actually a vital storytelling tool. Previous examples, like two different takes on The Odyssey — including one made with Elon Musk’s Grok — have left plenty to be desired.
