Generative AI and Creative Economies in Movie Production
December 5, 2024 Wellington, New Zealand (Rydges Wellington Hotel)
On December 5, 2024, Wellington, New Zealand, will host a focused, one-day event organized by the Digital Communication Network (DCN). This event will examine the impact of Generative AI on the movie production industry, bringing together experts from New Zealand and beyond to discuss the ongoing changes in film production driven by AI.
The event will begin with an analysis of how Generative AI is altering traditional aspects of movie production, including scriptwriting, character development, and visual effects. Through case studies and real-world examples, participants will learn about the practical applications of AI in enhancing creative processes within filmmaking.
As discussions continue, attention will shift to the ethical and practical challenges posed by AI-driven filmmaking. Topics will include the authenticity of AI-generated content, the balance between innovation and traditional artistic roles, and the implications for intellectual property. The broader production challenges, such as AI's potential to streamline processes and reshape industry norms, will also be explored.
Topics
Discussions will address the potential risks of AI in the film industry, including job displacement, the environmental costs of AI, and the ethical concerns related to biased algorithms. These discussions will aim to provide a balanced perspective on the opportunities and challenges that AI presents.
The event will conclude with a discussion on the relationship between AI and human creativity, focusing on how AI can serve as a tool to enhance, rather than replace, human artistic expression.
Participants
The event is intended for a diverse audience, including local filmmakers, producers, scriptwriters, visual effects artists, digital innovators, AI specialists, and academic researchers.
By bringing together professionals from New Zealand's creative and technological sectors, as well as international experts, the workshop aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of AI's role in the future of movie production. Participants will leave with the knowledge needed to integrate AI into their creative processes while considering the broader implications for the industry.
The forum is organized by World Learning and Digital Communication Network Global with funding from the U.S. State Department’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs.
SCHEDULE
DECEMBER 5
Registration and Welcome Coffee
Begin the day with refreshments and networking opportunities.
An Opening Mihi Whakatau & Karakia (Welcome Speech and Conference Blessing)
An Introduction to Digital Communication Network Global
Marianna Tanagia, Communications Director, DCN Global
Keynote: Ethics, Inclusion, and Innovation: The Future of AI in Media Production
Renard Jenkins discusses leveraging AI in creative industries while upholding ethics, diversity, and artistic integrity.
Renard Jenkins, President and CEO, I2A2 Technologies, Labs and Studios, President, Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers, Board Member, Hollywood Professional Association, Los Angeles, California
Keynote: Virtual Production and the New Frontiers of AI in Filmmaking
Insights into how AI-driven techniques will impact the use of visual effects, volumetric capture, and real-time technology in content creation while also exploring AI's ethical impact on the culture and craft of filmmaking.
Kathryn Brillhart, Virtual Production Supervisor, Cinematographer & Director, Los Angeles, California
Coffee Break
A short break for refreshments and networking.
Panel Discussion: Innovating Narratives: Pioneering Tools and Technologies Shaping the Future of Storytelling
This panel reflects your expertise in visual effects and virtual reality, emphasizing the forward-thinking approach to storytelling.
- Lance Lones, VFX/VR Technologist & Creative Director, New Zealand
- Emma Clifton Perry, VFX Supervisor/Consultant, New Zealand (Invited)
Fireside Chat: AI and the Future of Character Development
Examining how generative AI serves as a creative collaborator in character creation.
- Rachel Copp, VFX Producer, Rising Sun Pictures, New Zealand
- Dimitris Dimitriadis, Futurist, Advisor to the Special Secretary for Strategic Foresight, Presidency of Government Hellenic Republic, Greece
Lunch Break
Enjoy lunch and connect with fellow attendees.
Fireside Chat: Navigating Intellectual Property in AI-Driven Production
Examining the intricacies of intellectual property rights concerning AI-generated content in creative sectors, along with its connection with indigenous technology.
- Rhonda Kite, ONZM, Company Director, Kiwa Digital, Aotearoa-New Zealand Iwi: Te Aupouri, Ngati Kuri, Ngaitakoto, Ngati Rarana/English
- Dimitris Dimitriadis, Futurist, Advisor to the Special Secretary for Strategic Foresight, Presidency of Government Hellenic Republic, Greece
Keynote: Fast Forward Aotearoa: Harnessing Exponential Technologies for New Zealand’s Creative Future
Ben Reid explores how rapidly advancing technologies are reshaping New Zealand’s creative industries. Drawing from his work in “Fast Forward Aotearoa,” he discusses strategies for leveraging AI and other emerging technologies to enhance storytelling, production, and cultural preservation.
Ben Reid, Technology Futurist, Memia, Aotearoa New Zealand
Afternoon Coffee Break
A brief break for refreshments.
Keynote: Worldbuilding with AI: Designing Immersive Narratives for the Future
Exploring AI’s role in crafting cohesive, immersive experiences across various platforms
Rachel Joy Victor, Co-founder, FBRC.ai, Los Angeles, California
Keynote: AI in Film Production: Balancing Innovation with Tradition and Economic Reality
Kristy Grant shares her experiences at Lane Street Studios, discussing the commercial impact of AI on international production.
Speaker: Kristy Grant, CEO, Lane Street Studios, New Zealand
Open Mic Session: Insights and Reflections
An informal session inviting attendees to share insights, reflections, and questions sparked by the day’s discussions. This is a unique opportunity for audience members to engage directly, pose questions to speakers, and share their perspectives on the future of AI in the creative sector.
Closing Remarks
Summarizing key insights from the day’s sessions and discussing future trends in AI and creative industries.
Speakers
