AI has sparked significant concern among Hollywood professionals, especially during last year’s strikes by writers and actors. Many were alarmed at the potential for AI to replicate likenesses or generate scripts without proper compensation. Despite these fears, some filmmakers are exploring AI’s possibilities, balancing its risks and benefits.

The Culver Cup, held in Culver City, California, was a key example of this exploration. Sponsored by FBRC.AI and AWS, the competition challenged filmmakers to create AI-generated short films within three weeks. Participants received prompts from director David Slade, credits for AI tools like Luma Dream Machine and Playbook, and a 3D diner model for their projects. Among hundreds of applicants, 50 filmmakers were selected, with eight finalists competing for the championship. The audience at LA Tech Week ultimately crowned the winner.

While the Culver Cup demonstrated the creative capabilities of AI, it also highlighted its current limitations. Some shorts suffered from character inconsistencies and visual artifacts. However, Jon Jones, head of AWS Startups, emphasized that the competition aimed to showcase “what’s possible, not what’s perfect.”

The intersection of creativity and technology remains a contentious issue. AWS Startups collaborates with generative AI toolmakers, while Amazon’s Prime Video division negotiates with writers’ and actors’ unions on AI’s ethical use in entertainment. Adobe, too, recently unveiled AI-powered video-editing tools, stressing that they are designed to complement—not replace—human creativity.

Meta echoed this sentiment during its collaboration with Blumhouse, where filmmakers such as Casey Affleck and Aneesh Chaganty tested Movie Gen. Meta’s Connor Hayes highlighted the focus on AI’s “responsible use,” while Blumhouse CEO Jason Blum welcomed the opportunity to explore the technology’s potential.

David Slade, who guided the Culver Cup contestants, acknowledges both the promise and challenges of AI in filmmaking. He argues that AI tools could empower creators who lack traditional studio resources. For instance, Playbook CTO Skylar Thomas noted that generative AI significantly boosts the productivity of individual filmmakers, allowing them to produce high-quality content at a fraction of the cost.

However, concerns remain about job displacement. A recent survey of 300 entertainment industry leaders revealed that 75% believed AI had led to job reductions, though new roles were also created. The long-term impact of AI on the industry remains uncertain.

Filmmakers like Meta Puppet, the Culver Cup winner, believe that skill and storytelling are crucial in creating impactful AI-generated films. His short, “Mnemonade,” used AI to transform his vocal performances into distinct characters, adding emotional depth to a story about memory loss.

While AI offers opportunities to reduce costs and democratize filmmaking, it also raises ethical and legal challenges. Studios face higher standards for image continuity and potential copyright risks. Nevertheless, AI could provide flexibility in budgets and increase the diversity of projects, as noted by Luma cofounder Amit Jain.

The next era of filmmaking may depend on how well creators adapt to this evolving technology. As Meta Puppet aptly stated, “Technology will change, but storytelling won’t.” AI might be a powerful tool, but the ability to craft compelling narratives will remain the cornerstone of great filmmaking.