Brett Stewart, head of AI filmmaking at Staircase Studio, discusses how his studio uses AI technology to produce films like “The Woman with Red Hair” at lower costs while still prioritizing human creativity and artistry. He emphasizes that AI enhances the filmmaking process by assisting with visuals and production efficiency, but the core storytelling remains in the hands of skilled artists, ensuring a collaborative and supportive environment for creatives.
In a recent interview, Brett Stewart, the head of AI filmmaking at Staircase Studio, discussed the innovative approach his studio is taking to produce films at significantly lower costs using AI technology. The studio’s first film, “The Woman with Red Hair,” showcases the integration of AI while still involving human actors, emphasizing the importance of maintaining artistry in filmmaking. Stewart explained that while AI can generate visuals and assist in the filmmaking process, it is not intended to replace human creativity but rather to complement it, similar to how CGI transformed the industry in the past.
Stewart highlighted that AI’s role in filmmaking primarily focuses on enhancing visuals rather than creating original stories. The studio collaborates with talented screenwriters and directors to develop scripts, while AI tools are utilized to create environments and character designs. This method allows for a more efficient production process, enabling artists to produce higher-quality content in less time. He noted that the current workflow resembles animation production, where detailed storyboarding and asset creation precede the actual filming.
The conversation also touched on the potential future of AI in the film industry, with Stewart expressing optimism about the technology’s ability to improve and evolve. He acknowledged that while AI-generated content may increase, the best stories will still come from skilled artists and storytellers. He believes that AI will empower creatives to bring their ideas to life, particularly for projects that may not have received funding from traditional studios due to budget constraints.
Stewart addressed concerns regarding the impact of AI on job security for actors and writers, asserting that the studio values collaboration with artists rather than replacement. He emphasized the importance of respecting the craft of actors and ensuring they are compensated fairly for their work. The studio aims to create a supportive environment where artists can thrive and share in the success of their projects, potentially earning more than they would in larger studio settings.
Overall, the discussion highlighted the transformative potential of AI in filmmaking, with Stewart advocating for its use as a tool to enhance creativity and storytelling. As Staircase Studio continues to develop new projects, they aim to push the boundaries of traditional filmmaking while ensuring that human artistry remains at the forefront of their productions. The future of AI in film, according to Stewart, is not about replacing artists but rather about enabling them to tell more diverse and compelling stories.