AI in Entertainment: How Artificial Intelligence is Shaping Media

Name a field that has not been impacted by Artificial Intelligence (AI) Impossible, since AI is also revolutionising the entertainment industry, transforming how we create, distribute, and consume media. From personalised content recommendations to immersive gaming experiences, AI is reshaping the landscape of entertainment in ways that were once the stuff of science fiction. For young people, these innovations are not just fascinating but also indicative of the future of media.

One of the most visible impacts of AI in entertainment is in content creation and personalization. Streaming services like Netflix and Spotify use AI algorithms to examine user preferences and viewing habits, offering personalised recommendations that keep audiences engaged. These recommendation engines are powered by machine learning, which continuously improves its accuracy by learning from user interactions. This technology ensures that viewers and listeners discover content that aligns with their tastes, enhancing their overall experience. The same you experience with Instagram scrolling

AI is also making waves in the realm of content creation. Tools like OpenAI's GPT-4 can generate scripts, draft articles, and even compose music. In filmmaking, AI is used to edit videos, create special effects, and even generate realistic digital characters. For instance, the movie Rogue One: A Star Wars Story used AI to recreate the likeness of actor Peter Cushing, who passed away in 1994, for the character Grand Moff Tarkin. This blend of AI and creativity is pushing the boundaries of what is possible in storytelling and visual effects. Another use of AI in Hollywood is background creation. Crews and movie staff no longer need to travel the world to shoot a movie; they can just sit in front of a PC screen and generate high-quality picture to serve as specific location backgrounds for different scenes.

In the world of video gaming, AI is driving some of the most exciting innovations. AI-powered non-player characters (NPCs) are becoming more sophisticated, offering dynamic and realistic interactions that enhance gameplay. Games like The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim and Red Dead Redemption 2 feature NPCs that can adapt to player actions, creating a more immersive and engaging experience. AI is also used to generate vast, procedurally created worlds, ensuring that each player's experience is unique. All this can be further enhanced by the use of VR headsets for an even more immersive experience.

Is it all gold that glitters?

But Scarlett Johansson recently found herself at the centre of a controversy involving the illicit use of her voice by OpenAI. This happened despite Johansson having declined an offer from OpenAI to lend her voice for the system. Johansson expressed shock and anger upon discovering that the voice used by OpenAI was almost indistinguishable from her own, leading to confusion among her friends, family, and the public. The incident highlights the broader issue of AI companies using the likenesses and voices of celebrities without their consent. Johansson's case is part of a growing trend where actors and other public figures are taking legal steps to protect their identities from being exploited by AI technologies.

The potential of AI in entertainment is not without other darker implications, as explored in various sci-fi movies. Some narratives highlight the potential for AI to profoundly impact human emotions and social interactions. For example, the Black Mirror episode Playtest explores the terrifying potential of AI in gaming. The episode features a virtual reality game that uses AI to create personalised horror experiences based on the player's deepest fears. This chilling portrayal underscores the ethical considerations and potential psychological impacts of AI-driven entertainment technologies.

Despite these cautionary tales, the benefits of AI in entertainment are significant. AI can enhance creativity, streamline production processes, and offer personalised experiences that cater to individual preferences. For young people, these advancements mean more engaging and diverse content, as well as new opportunities for creative expression and interaction. AI's role in enhancing audience engagement cannot be overstated. Interactive and tailormade advertising, powered by AI, ensures that viewers see ads relevant to their interests, increasing the likelihood of engagement and conversion.

However, ask a songwriter what it is like to compete with generative AI. The answer would be unspeakable. In the music industry, AI is being used to compose and produce music. Platforms like Amper Music and AIVA (Artificial Intelligence Virtual Artist) allow users to create original compositions with the help of AI. These tools democratise music production, enabling anyone to create professional-quality music regardless of their technical skills, but leaves room to critiques coming from professionals who feel threatened by this democratisation of music. Not to talk about the amount of fake news generated by AI-systems and distributed online as genuine content

AI is undeniably shaping the future of entertainment, offering innovative solutions. While there are many ethical considerations to address, the potential benefits of AI in media and entertainment are vast. For young people, these advancements promise a future filled with exciting, immersive, content, transforming how we experience and interact with media.