In a recent interview at WIRED’s The Big Interview event, director Zack Snyder shared his perspective on the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) in filmmaking. He noted that despite the widespread availability of high-quality cameras on smartphones, we have not seen a proliferation of exceptional movies emerging from this accessibility. This suggests that simply having the tools does not equate to the creation of compelling content. Snyder emphasized the importance for Hollywood creatives to educate themselves about AI, particularly in relation to image-making and storytelling. He believes filmmakers should embrace AI as a tool to enhance their work rather than resist or ignore its potential.
Snyder’s inquiries into the purpose of AI in filmmaking reveal a thoughtful consideration of its capabilities. He expressed hesitation regarding its application in basic scenarios, such as recording a person sitting in a chair, questioning the value added by such technology. However, he also acknowledged that AI has remarkable potential to facilitate complex shots that might otherwise incur significant costs for filmmakers, regardless of their setting—be it a burning building, space, or an underwater scene. This perspective highlights the versatility of AI, which, in Snyder’s view, could democratize certain aspects of filmmaking by making ambitious visual storytelling more attainable.
Another intriguing aspect that Snyder discusses is the notion of an AI that could grasp a filmmaker’s aesthetic sensibilities intimately. Imagine an AI that could comprehend the director’s artistic vision—capturing an actor’s performance in a way that aligns perfectly with the designed environment of a film. Snyder envisions a future where AI not only provides technical support but also consolidates an “aesthetic bank” that resonates with a filmmaker’s unique style. Should an AI possess this ability to interpret a director’s nuanced desires, he argues, it could elevate the filmmaking process to new heights, transforming the way visual narratives are crafted.
Snyder, who has worked extensively with visual effects in his career, emphasizes that performance remains the cornerstone of cinematic storytelling. He regards everything outside of the actor as mere context; it’s the human element that ultimately drives narratives. Snyder expresses a strong preference for films that convey a director’s distinct vision—a vision that can evoke emotions in ways audiences cannot predict. The challenge, he recognizes, lies in how this deeply human aspect of filmmaking can evolve alongside technological advancements, including AI.
The evolution of movie viewing experiences is another critical aspect Snyder explores, particularly in the context of streaming platforms like Netflix. He acknowledges that such platforms have significantly broadened audience reach, allowing films to be viewed by millions more than traditional theatrical releases. This shift prompts Snyder to adapt his approach when creating content meant for streaming, emphasizing the importance of understanding the intended format. He asserts that the nature of the viewer experience must inform the creative process, suggesting that, while cinema is traditionally rooted in theatricality, the dynamics can shift dramatically in an age dominated by streaming.
Concluding his reflections, Snyder posits that the audience’s consumption of films may continually transform as technology advances. He highlights a paradox in the way artistic value is often linked to theatrical releases, acknowledging the broader reach of streaming services. While he embraces the challenges posed by the streaming model, Snyder maintains that the essence of storytelling is deeply rooted in the human connection that films can foster. As filmmakers adapt to the changing landscape, he stresses the need to possess a flexible mindset toward new tools like AI while remaining true to the core of creative expression that audiences seek.
