Artificial intelligence changes the entertainment business in different ways that we never think and imagine. From creating lifelike voice-overs to streamlining the casting process. AI’s opportunities can either open an array of great opportunities or be significant challenges.
One of the most noticeable impacts of AI is in voiceover work. Imagine a top Australian voiceover artist who used to earn a six-figure salary now driving an Uber to make ends meet.
This shift happened because producers discovered that AI-generated voice overs are faster and cheaper. As a result, many contracts with human voiceover artists were canceled, according to a report by Louise Talbot.
Adam Jacobs, head of Hunter Talent, has seen firsthand how AI is transforming the industry. He noted that the demand for voiceover actors has dropped by 80 percent in the past year. Jacobs predicts that within the next two years.
Computer-generated background extras will become more economical than human extras. Brands are now interested in buying digital licenses for AI-generated images of models that eliminate the need for physical photoshoots.
See also: What Apple’s OpenAI Partnership Could Mean for Microsoft and Google
The Media, Entertainment, and Arts Alliance recently reported that 56 percent of its members are extremely concerned about the rise of AI. Federal President Michael Balk expressed worries about AI’s potential to devalue the original work of artists and creators and to mislead audiences.
He warned that unchecked AI usage could undermine the credibility and authenticity of artistic work. Media content leads to job losses and poorer working conditions.
On a more positive note, AI innovations like ElevenLabs’ text-to-speech app are making waves. This app clones the voices of stars like Judy Garland and James Dean and transforms any text into a lifelike voiceover with emotion and contextual understanding. For example, like legally blind users.
This technology is a dream come true. However, the potential for misuse, such as creating “deep fakes,” remains a concern. Garland’s daughter, Liza Minnelli, expressed excitement about the app, stating that it allows millions to experience her mother’s voice in a new way.
The casting process has also evolved with AI. Jacobs noted that video submissions now account for 90 percent of auditions, a significant increase from pre-COVID levels.
AI helps streamline cast matching talent with suitable roles, managing schedules, and predicting industry trends. While AI could be the talent industry’s savior. Jacobs says that if it’s not harnessed carefully, it also could be its downfall.
If AI continues to develop of its own accord. The entertainment business challenges to strike a balance between enhancing the advances in technology and preserving human creativity, value, and authenticity.
The future of entertainment lies in exploiting the potential of AI while protecting both the livelihood and integrity of artists and creators.
References
Talbot, Louise. (Tireless rise of AI hits jobs in the entertainment industry).
