Last week, actor and director Ben Affleck shared his thoughts on the role of AI in filmmaking at the 2024 CNBC Delivering Alpha investor summit, arguing that AI models will transform visual effects, but won't revolutionize creative filmmaking anytime soon replace. A video clip of Affleck's thoughts began circulating widely on social media not long after.
“I didn't expect Ben Affleck to have the most articulate and realistic explanation of where video modeling and Hollywood are going,” one X user wrote.
In the clip, Affleck spoke about the capabilities of current AI models as imitators and conceptual translators – imitators that are typically better at translating from one style to another rather than churning out deeply creative material.
“AI can write excellent imitative verse, but not Shakespeare,” Affleck told CNBC's David Faber. “The function of having two, three or four actors in a room and the taste to distinguish and construct, that is completely beyond the capabilities of AI.”
Affleck views AI models as “craftsmen,” not artists (though some may find the term “craftsman” in his analogy a bit inaccurate). He explained that while AI can learn through imitation – like a craftsman studying furniture-making techniques – it lacks the creative judgment that defines artistry. “A craftsman knows how to work. Art is knowing when to stop,” he said.
“It's not going to replace human film production,” Affleck said. Instead, he sees AI taking over “the more labor-intensive, less creative and more expensive aspects of filmmaking,” which could lower the barriers to entry and make it easier for emerging filmmakers to make films like Goodwill Hunting.
Movies will become dramatically cheaper to make
While it may initially seem like Affleck was attacking the generative AI capabilities in the tech industry, he also didn't deny the impact it could have on filmmaking. For example, he predicted that AI would reduce costs and speed up production schedules, making shows like HBO's possible House of the Dragon to release two seasons in the same period it takes to make one.
