Lionsgate, the entertainment company behind blockbuster hits like “John Wick” and “The Hunger Games,” is diving headfirst into the world of artificial intelligence (AI) by partnering with Runway, a leading AI startup. This collaboration aims to leverage AI to enhance the filmmaking process and potentially save millions of dollars.
First-of-its-kind AI collaboration
The partnership involves Lionsgate granting Runway access to its vast library of films and TV shows. In return, Runway will develop a custom-built AI model specifically tailored to Lionsgate’s needs. This AI model will be integrated into the studio’s editing and production workflow, offering a range of potential applications.
“Runway is a visionary, best-in-class partner who will help us utilize AI to develop cutting-edge, capital-efficient content creation opportunities,” said Lionsgate Vice Chair Michael Burns in a press release. “Several of our filmmakers are already excited about its potential applications to their pre-production and post-production process. We view AI as a great tool for augmenting, enhancing and supplementing our current operations.”
“The best and most powerful tools to augment workflows”
One of the primary areas where Lionsgate expects to benefit from AI is storyboarding. The AI model can assist in visualizing and planning scenes, saving time and resources. Additionally, Lionsgate envisions using AI to create backgrounds and special effects, such as explosions, which are common elements in their action-packed films.
“We’re committed to giving artists, creators and studios the best and most powerful tools to augment their workflows and enable new ways of bringing their stories to life. The history of art is the history of technology and these new models are part of our continuous efforts to build transformative mediums for artistic and creative expression. The best stories are yet to be told,” said Runway co-founder and CEO Cristóbal Valenzuela. “Lionsgate has an incredible creative team and a clear vision for how AI can help their work – we’re excited to help bring their ideas to life.”
“Millions and millions of dollars” in cost reductions
While some creators have expressed concerns about AI replacing their roles, Lionsgate believes that AI can be a valuable tool to augment the creative process. Michael Burns, vice chairman of Lionsgate Studio, emphasized the potential financial savings associated with using AI, estimating “millions and millions of dollars” in cost reductions, reported the the Wall Street Journal.
The partnership between Lionsgate and Runway comes at a time when many entertainment companies are exploring the possibilities of AI. As the technology continues to advance, it is expected to play an increasingly significant role in the filmmaking industry.
