Is AI the Future of Hollywood?

AI is everywhere. And it’s making its way to Hollywood. In this article, we are addressing some of the fears of AI taking over Hollywood and how you can best prepare for the inevitable. ​

THE AI AND HOLLYWOOD INTERSECTION

It’s a tough feat to try to be better than a computer. If you’re on Screenwriting Twitter then I’m sure you’ve heard the rumblings about studios looking to AI to help write screenplays. AI, or artificial intelligence, simply put is computer programming that can be used to mimic human behaviors. AI is behind commonly used devices like Siri and Alexa, but what place does it have in Hollywood? Well, some of the major studios may be trying to find out. 

So what would a world look like with AI powered screenplays? While these are only rumors, what it would likely look like is the studios using formulas to make what they think is a great movie. Data would be drawn from the box office to see what worked and what flopped and then using science to generate what they think will be the best screenplay. Let’s face it, screenwriting can sometimes be formulaic, but there is nothing that can take the place of a writer.

What AI will lack, if the rumors are true, is the heart that comes from a true screenwriter. The nuance of dialogue. Inverting genres and flipping it on its head. Likable characters that are still deeply flawed. That’s something only a writer can do, not a computer program. So fret not, your job is not yet to be replaced by a robot but it’s important to stay abreast of industry changes, especially when technology is involved.

KEEP YOUR SKILLS SHARP

So how can you best prepare for an industry that’s changing? By keeping your skills sharp! That means practicing the craft and working it out just like a muscle. Did you know our upcoming writers retreat will have SIX HOURS of workshops?! Yes, you read that right. And you can get in on the action at the Auditor level, both in-person and virtually! Stay ahead of the curve and add more tools to your screenwriting toolbox by attending Relax. Rewrite. Retreat. You can register for the event here.

Written by TPP Story Expert Khadija Roane