OpenAI is venturing into Hollywood with 'Critterz,' a film set to debut at Cannes that incorporated AI throughout its production process.

      The creators of Paddington in Peru are behind this project, but it’s the AI integration that has captured everyone’s attention.

      The discussion surrounding AI in Hollywood has reached a significant platform. AGC Studios is presenting Critterz at the upcoming Cannes Film Market, marketing it as the first mainstream animated family film made with AI assistance integrated into its production process (via Deadline).

      This film is a feature-length adaptation of a viral short film released in 2023, which was one of the pioneering projects to utilize OpenAI’s creative tools.

      What is the premise of Critterz?

      The narrative centers on a timid yet brave woodland creature who teams up with a quirky group of outcasts on a quest to locate her missing brother. Director Nik Kleverov, who co-founded the AI production studio Native Foreign, describes the film as a tribute to ’80s adventure cinema.

      Critterz is not just an experimental project or a low-budget production; it is a full-length feature with substantial creative talent involved and an estimated budget of $30 million, which would have been significantly higher without the use of AI tools.

      While AI plays a role, the creative team is entirely comprised of humans.

      Characters from the original Critterz short. Vertigo Films

      The screenplay is written by James Lamont and Jon Foster, known for their work on Paddington in Peru and Cartoon Network's The Amazing World of Gumball. They are joined by Tom Butterworth, recognized for Birthday Girl and Ashes to Ashes.

      Despite the AI-supported production, the voice cast is anticipated to be completely human. Chad Nelson, a creative strategist at OpenAI, is producing alongside Vertigo Films’ Allan Niblo and James Richardson.

      AGC’s Stuart Ford has emphasized that AI is a tool that enhances human artists rather than replacing them. The studio envisions Critterz as evidence that filmmakers can maintain creative control while utilizing AI for the more visually intensive aspects of production.

      What is Hollywood's stance on AI in films?

      The Academy / Digital Trends

      Critterz arrives at a time when Hollywood is still determining the role of artificial intelligence in the industry. Cannes has prohibited films where AI is the primary authoring source from competing in its main festival.

      Additionally, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has recently revised its guidelines, clarifying that while AI can be utilized in production, it cannot be credited or nominated for an Oscar in acting or writing categories.

      This year, Steven Spielberg made his views clear, stating that he has never integrated AI into his films and strongly opposes the replacement of human creativity by AI.

      AI-generated version of Val Kilmer in the upcoming film “As Deep as the Grave.” Variety

      However, opinions vary among creators. The forthcoming indie film As Deep as the Grave employed generative AI to recreate the voice and performance of the late Val Kilmer, introducing its own set of ethical considerations regarding consent and artistic legacy.

      Critterz sits at the intersection of this debate. Whether it becomes a model for a more innovative filmmaking approach or serves as a warning, the discussions it provokes might prove to be more significant than the film itself.

      Manisha Priyadarshini is a tech and entertainment writer with over nine years of editorial experience.

      5 great Netflix shows for New Year's Day and beyond

      New Year’s Day can often lead to scrolling through Netflix without truly committing to anything. The issue isn’t a lack of choices, but rather selecting something that fits your viewing style, which typically means a show that starts quickly or maintains a steady pace without requiring too much focus.

      Whether you are recovering from a late night or just gradually starting the year, the right show can ease the process. This list highlights five options that are particularly fitting right now, not just because they are popular, but because they are designed for this kind of viewing. Some are suited for quick binges with high retention, others are more relaxing to watch, and a few merit a more attentive viewing if you feel like engaging. Each fits the kind of momentum that makes completing a full season or a limited series feel effortless, whether today or on any day you want something that remains engaging without requiring too much effort.

      YouTube’s auto-dubbing lacks one essential feature: an off switch

      YouTube has created a tool to translate global videos but has failed to provide viewers with a way to opt out.

      Having watched MKBHD for years, I find his voice integral to the experience. So when a recent upload started playing on my TV and he suddenly spoke in Japanese, it took me a moment to realize what was happening.

      This was something I hadn’t activated; YouTube had evidently determined, likely due to the Japanese text on his T-shirt (but probably because of my anime-watching habits with English subtitles), that I should hear a dubbed version in a language I didn’t comprehend. It was irrelevant that the video was filmed in English and that I had previously watched hundreds of his videos in English