In a recent interview with Variety, director and producer Shawn Levy noted that he sees AI becoming an “essential tool” in filmmaking, although he personally hasn’t utilized it yet. His forthcoming film Star Wars: Starfighter starring Amy Adams, Ryan Gosling, and Matt Smith, premieres on May 28, 2027.

AI and Filmmaking

In speaking about being in post-production of Starfighter, Levy acknowledged that he has yet to use AI in any “meaningful” way in his work. Though he anticipates it will become part of his journey at some point. “To date, I’ve not incorporated AI in any meaningful way in any phase of my storytelling process, but I have no doubt that in the course of my career we will see its integration,” he told the outlet.

He expanded on that thought, explaining that people should be accepting rather than fearful of AI as it progresses: “To the point that many smarter people than I have made, it’s about integrating these technologies responsibly and with still the primacy of the creative voice and not a potential replacement for that voice because I think that what you get from creative voice and vision is singular and irreplicable, but if we can use these emerging AI capacities to support storytelling in still a kind of creative and human first workflow then I think it’s something to embrace, not fear.”

But before people can really embrace AI, regulation is going to be a significant component, Levy explained. He acknowledged that he is always trying to stay on top of AI regulations as they happen, as those will be essential as it continues to make its way into people’s professional and personal lives.

Levy’s 60 previous projects have included being an executive producer on Stranger Things, producer on Deadpool & Wolverine, producer on Night at the Museum and its spin-offs and sequels.

Dana Walden’s priorities in her new position as President and Chief Creative Officer of The Walt Disney Company will include incorporating AI into movie production.

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