Zack Snyder Urges Filmmakers To Embrace AI As A Creative Tool

Director Zack Snyder, known for helming films like Justice League and the upcoming Rebel Moon, has shared his belief that filmmakers should embrace artificial intelligence (AI) rather than avoid it. Speaking at Wired’s The Big Interview event, Snyder described AI as a transformative tool for storytelling and image-making.

“Educating yourself and understanding what [AI] can and can’t do is important right now,” Snyder said, emphasizing that creatives need to explore AI’s capabilities rather than shy away from them. “You have to use it as a tool as opposed to standing on the sidelines with your hands on your hips.”

AI as the Next Creative Frontier

Snyder likened the rise of AI to the widespread accessibility of high-quality smartphone cameras. Despite everyone having powerful tools at their fingertips, it hasn’t resulted in a flood of groundbreaking films. His point underscores that technology alone doesn’t guarantee creativity, but it offers a powerful resource for those who know how to use it.

AI’s unique potential to create otherwise inaccessible shots excites Snyder. “AI doesn’t care if a house is on fire or if it’s on Mars or underwater,” he said. “All the things that might cost a filmmaker a lot of money to shoot are, to the AI, no different.” This capacity to break logistical barriers could revolutionize filmmaking, particularly for indie creators with limited budgets.

A Divisive Issue in Creative Industries

While Snyder champions AI’s possibilities, its integration into creative industries has sparked debate. Legendary director Tim Burton labeled AI-generated art “very disturbing,” reflecting a common sentiment among traditional artists and creators. Similarly, controversies have erupted in gaming and art communities. Wizards of the Coast faced backlash for its use of AI in Magic: The Gathering illustrations, and prominent voice actors like Ned Luke (Grand Theft Auto V) and Doug Cockle (The Witcher) have voiced concerns about AI-generated performances replacing human talent.

Despite the friction, Snyder’s pragmatic perspective stands out: “You have to understand what it is and what it’s not capable of.” By acknowledging AI’s limitations and potential, filmmakers can wield it as a complement to, not a replacement for, human ingenuity.

As AI continues to evolve, Snyder’s call to action may resonate more widely, urging artists to experiment with this new frontier while shaping its ethical and creative boundaries.

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Source: Dan Lalonde

Photo Credit: 20th Century Studios/Tristan Debrauwere