NBCUniversal’s Donna Langley on AI: ‘We’ve got to get the ethics of it right’

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As a seasoned movie buff with decades of experience in the industry, I wholeheartedly agree with Donna Langley‘s perspective on artificial intelligence (AI) in filmmaking. Her insights gained from leading NBCUniversal Studio Group are invaluable and reflect a deep understanding of the complexities and challenges that AI poses to our creative community.

As a movie critic, I find the advancements in artificial intelligence truly captivating. However, it’s crucial for us as an industry to establish boundaries. We need to ensure fair labor practices, safeguard intellectual property, and uphold ethical standards to prevent potential misuse or abuse of this technology.

At the UCLA Entertainment Symposium, the media executive expressed during an extensive interview that the workers’ aspect must be properly addressed first for approval from the audience, which was signified by their applause.

She emphasized that it’s important not to violate people’s freedoms, while also acknowledging the need for advanced and intelligent copyright regulations to safeguard our intellectual property.

After addressing the necessary concerns, filmmakers and content collaborators require the flexibility to employ technology effectively, according to Langley. She viewed AI as akin to any other technological advancement the film industry has faced and expressed excitement about its potential to enhance creativity.

Instead of resisting and ignoring it, it would be more beneficial for both our industry and company to accept and follow its fundamental principles. I believe this new trend is thrilling; it certainly should be. However, it’s essential that we handle it ethically.

Last year brought significant success for Langley and Universal Pictures with the release of “Oppenheimer.” The film generated an impressive global box office earnings of $975 million and was honored with numerous Oscars, including the prestigious award for Best Picture.

At Langley’s recent interview, he wasn’t the only executive to discuss AI’s impact on the entertainment business. Previously, Tony Vinciquerra, CEO of Sony Pictures Entertainment, shared his perspective with financial analysts and investors, stating that AI could help reduce production costs for the studio.

In Hollywood, AI has become a significant topic of discussion as tech firms have been pursuing closer ties with studios and industry professionals. However, treading carefully is essential since entertainment executives aim to prevent potential backlash from actors, writers, and other labor forces who see AI as a potential job replacement.

Last year’s labor disputes between the Writers Guild of America and the Screen Actors G guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists saw technology advancing at an unprecedented rate become a major point of contention. The resulting agreements reached by both parties incorporated protections for AI, ensuring that actors are asked for consent and fairly compensated whenever their digital likenesses are utilized.

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2024-07-18 22:04