Ben Affleck's recent commentary on artificial intelligence (AI) and its role in Hollywood has sparked widespread discussion, with many online praising his nuanced and insightful perspective. The actor and director, known for films such as "Argo" and "Good Will Hunting," shared his views on "The Joe Rogan Experience" podcast, offering a counterpoint to the more fearful narratives surrounding AI in the entertainment industry.
Affleck acknowledged AI's potential to disrupt Hollywood but downplayed the idea that it would replace human creativity. He argued that AI is more likely to serve as a tool to streamline workflows and reduce costs in areas like visual effects and other laborious tasks. This, he believes, could lower the barrier to entry for filmmakers and allow more diverse voices to be heard. According to Affleck, AI could assist with tasks such as color correction or even allow fans to rewrite their favorite TV shows.
However, Affleck also expressed skepticism about AI's ability to create anything truly original or meaningful. He stated that AI-generated content tends to gravitate toward the average and lacks the unique artistic vision that human filmmakers bring to their work. "AI can write you excellent, imitative verse that sounds Elizabethan. It cannot write you Shakespeare," Affleck stated at CNBC's Delivering Alpha 2024 investor summit. He also highlighted the limitations of large language models, comparing them to craftsmen who can imitate existing styles but lack the artistic taste and judgment to know "when to stop".
Affleck addressed concerns about AI potentially leading to job losses in the film industry, particularly in visual effects. However, he also pointed out that laws already exist to protect artists' likeness and prevent their unauthorized use in AI-generated content. He suggested that the fear surrounding AI is often driven by corporations seeking to justify their investments in the technology.
Affleck's perspective contrasts with some of the more alarmist views expressed by other Hollywood figures, including Robert Downey Jr.. While some worry about AI replacing human roles and creativity, Affleck believes that AI will primarily be a tool to enhance and augment human capabilities.
Ultimately, Affleck's commentary suggests a more balanced and optimistic view of AI's role in Hollywood. While acknowledging the potential challenges and disruptions, he emphasizes the opportunities for AI to empower filmmakers, reduce costs, and foster greater creativity. His articulate and technically grounded analysis has resonated with many online, leading to the widespread sentiment that he is "actually very intelligent" when it comes to understanding the complexities of AI and its impact on the film industry. He observed diminishing returns in AI development, noting that newer models offer only incremental improvements at significantly higher costs. He also humorously pointed out that a large number of AI users primarily use the technology as "companion bots to chat with at night".
