AI-enhanced films 'The Brutalist' and 'Emilia Pérez' score Oscar nominations for acting, editing
Jan 23, 2025 - cnbc.com
Two films, "The Brutalist" and "Emilia Pérez," led the Academy Awards nominations amid controversy over their use of artificial intelligence (AI). "The Brutalist," a drama about a Hungarian-Jewish architect, received 10 nominations, including best actor for Adrien Brody and best supporting actress for Felicity Jones. "Emilia Pérez," a musical about a transgender Mexican cartel leader, garnered 13 nominations, with Karla Sofía Gascón up for best actress. Both films faced criticism for using AI to enhance actors' voices, with "The Brutalist" also employing AI for its visual effects. Despite the backlash, AI's role in filmmaking remains a contentious topic, highlighted by recent actors' and writers' strikes addressing AI's impact on the industry.
The controversy intensified following interviews with "The Brutalist" director Brady Corbet and film editor David Jancso, who defended the use of AI as a tool for efficiency and authenticity. Similarly, "Emilia Pérez" faced scrutiny for using AI to blend Gascón's voice with another singer's due to vocal range limitations. Defenders of the films cited past examples like "Bohemian Rhapsody" and "The Irishman," which used similar techniques. The debate underscores ongoing tensions in Hollywood over AI's creative and legal implications, as the industry grapples with balancing technological advancements and protecting creators' rights.
Key takeaways:
"The Brutalist" and "Emilia Pérez" lead the Academy Awards nominations, facing controversy for using AI to enhance actors' voices.
AI's role in filmmaking has sparked debate, with concerns about its impact on creators' rights and authenticity.
Both films have been defended by citing past movies that used similar AI techniques without controversy.
The use of AI in films raises creative and legal risks, with ongoing discussions about its implications in Hollywood.
