The Singularity of Filmmaking at Your Fingertips
More and more, we see advertisements (quite often low-quality ones) from big companies that have been created using AI. Have budgets shrunk, and have designers been laid off? Yes. I also use AI as a tool, but not directly as output (except for blog post images that I would not buy or spend time building). AI-generated art is too much like fast food for art and the cannibalization of craftsmanship. But you can use it in other ways too.
When used correctly and ethically, these tools enable world-building help like never before. AI can be a helpful tool in concepting and in many other areas too. Instead it being the master, it can be used as a servant. With the advent of affordable high-quality cameras, editing software, and accessible visual effects tools and AI, there are no more excuses for aspiring filmmakers not to create good quality films right from their homes. Also, having devices like iPhone 15 for shoots, anyone with an idea can create a story and manifest it. Recently, I shot and directed a short movie called “Portti”. I shot it in an afternoon in a few hours and 2 hours in a studio. It was a sort of a test on pushing the boundaries.
Scene from “Portti”. Combination of 3D CGI, iPhone footage and little help from AI.
The singularity in filmmaking isn't just about the convergence of artificial intelligence and the industry; it's about the democratization of creativity. Smartphones with advanced cameras have become the new film studios, enabling storytellers to capture stunning visuals with unprecedented clarity. Editing software, is now available to anyone with a computer. Also, software like Unreal and Blender are there for free.
So how do I use AI at the moment? I use it mainly for:
Creating concepts & brainstorming (mostly Midjourney + Runway)
Applying a certain look (e.g. building animation in Unreal, applying a style to it in Stable Diffusion)
Creating backgrounds in Midjourney, modifying and adding elements to them in PS.
Temp voice-overs with Eleven Labs.
And of course, content-aware fills in PS and AE, Rotobrush in AE, etc.
Plus, always testing new things as they come.
“Portti” was a test to push the boundaries using tools that anyone can obtain.
Moreover, the rise of online tutorials and communities means that aspiring filmmakers have a wealth of knowledge at their fingertips. From learning the intricacies of cinematography to mastering the nuances of visual effects, the resources are limitless. The only limitation is one’s imagination. AI can help in creating the initial bursts of inspiration. But when crafting things, I want to be in control, and probably so does my client.
In conclusion, the singularity in filmmaking has obliterated the notion that crafting films requires colossal budgets and exclusive access. With the right tools, dedication, ethics, and a passion for storytelling, filmmakers now have the means to turn their visions into cinematic reality instead of creating just random AI fast food. My point is that one should unleash creativity, use the available aids (most are free), and start making things. And have fun!
