There appears to be little concern from prominent filmmaker Zack Snyder regarding the potential impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on movie making. He reflects on the ubiquity of high-quality camera phones, and yet, observes the lack of a surge in exceptional movies being released from everyday individuals. Despite his questioning of AI’s immediate utility in filmmaking, he does recognize the impossible-to-ignore presence it has in the industry. His emphasis lies in gaining insights about the technology’s implications, its strengths and limitations, particularly in the spheres of visual creation and narrating stories.
Snyder stresses that, instead of grappling with insecurities, it’s crucial to grasp the capabilities of AI and leverage it as a valuable instrument rather than feeling threatened by its presence. Pondering over the effectiveness of AI in directing movies, he concedes that the technology has the potential to deliver more attainable filming solutions. For instance, capturing shots that would normally pose significant challenges, or incur huge costs, are inconsequential to AI.
When it comes to filming extreme scenarios—an ablaze residence, extraterrestrial environments, or underwater locations—AI might stand impassively in contrast to human directors. This fact intrigues Snyder, especially when considering a technology that could fully comprehend and interpret the fundamental character of a specific filmmaker or movie.
The idea of AI appreciating his vision—the atmospheric particles, the lighting, and overall set design—instead of forming its own interpretation of the scene is something that Snyder deems ‘impressive’. As a seasoned director of numerous films—superhero genres and others—with extensive experience of visual effects (VFX), Snyder acknowledges his comfort with this ostensibly virtual universe of filmmaking.
Nevertheless, he maintains his conviction that the authentic performance of the actors is the essence of what viewers see on screen. To Snyder, all elements beyond the actors merely function as a backdrop or ‘context’ within the films. His favorite films are characterized by the palpable presence of the director’s guiding touch.
He cherishes that very human perspective guiding the audience through an unexpected narrative journey, something which he describes as a craving for audiences and the essence of why viewers are willing to pay for a cinema experience. However, he does not discard the notion that the means of how we arrive at that ‘human thing’ may possibly change.
Snyder acknowledges that the method in which audiences consume cinema is undergoing a shift due to the rise of streaming platforms. Productions designated for these platforms have begun reaching a wider array of audiences than traditional theater ever could. Snyder asserts his belief that even films labelled as ‘blockbusters’ would undoubtedly attract a larger viewership if released on a popular streaming platform.
His words resonate with varying dynamics shaping the future of cinema. Streaming platforms, with their vast reach, have certainly transformed the term ‘blockbuster’. Larger audiences can now connect with films on a global scale, without ever stepping foot inside a theater. Snyder, for his part, is more than willing to take up the unique challenges that this new cinema consumption model affords.
He articulates his belief that disregarding him as an artist just because his work doesn’t appear in theaters seems unfair. According to him, if a said project is designed with understanding about its exclusive streaming release, he does not shy away from the responsibility. He justifies that sometimes, the reality may be that the majority of the audience may view the output on their phones, a fact determined by the content payment strategy implemented by the streaming service.
Snyder emphasizes that if this reality is communicated upfront, it should condition directors to embrace the journey and its outcome. If this circumstance is certain then he, as a filmmaker, should be at peace with all consequences that could unfold.
Zack Snyder, in spite of his questioning of AI’s potential in the cinema industry, remains open to its possibilities. He appreciates how evolving technologies like AI and online streaming platforms are altering filmmaking. Snyder’s wisdom implies that instead of fearing such changes, cinematic artists should strive to adapt.
His expected future stands on the premise where big-budget movies might well reach an extensive audience through digital streaming sites rather than the traditional cinema. Snyder, ever the pragmatist, demonstrates a readiness for whatever the future holds, fully prepared to leverage the emerging trends for cinematic storytelling.
He wholeheartedly accepts the reality of our ever-connected world and seems primed for the unique challenges it presents for future storytelling. In a world where streaming sites can command global audiences, Snyder’s views hint at a brave new world of cinema, one that embraces the unpredictability of the future.
Undeniably, the potential of AI, along with the mass proliferation of streaming services, paints an evolving picture of the film industry. Outlining his stand on this matter, Snyder underscores the need to stay plugged into emerging realities, be it the domination of AI or the ascendancy of streaming platforms. In doing so, he emphasizes the shifting paradigms and future of the entertainment industry.