As of July 18, 2023, the world of film and entertainment is facing an unprecedented challenge. Amid a strike by the Screen Actors Guild (SAG) and the Writers Guild of America (WGA), concerns over the integration of advanced technologies such as 3D scans and AI into the industry have taken center stage. While these concerns are valid, it's also crucial to recognize the immense potential these technologies hold for actors and the industry at large.
The Promise of 3D Scanning Technology
Career Longevity: 3D scans can immortalize an actor's likeness, allowing them to perform in roles beyond the constraints of age or physical limitations. This not only extends an actor's career but also opens up opportunities to take on roles they wouldn't otherwise be able to play.
Safety: High-risk stunts can be performed using digital doubles, reducing the risk of injury to actors. This technology offers an added layer of safety, particularly in action-heavy productions.
Efficiency: With 3D scans, some scenes can be shot using an actor's digital double, freeing up the actor's time and reducing the physical demands of long shooting schedules. This allows actors to focus their energy on scenes that truly require their unique presence and performance.
Creative Control: The detailed capture of an actor's performance through 3D scanning allows for post-production adjustments that can enhance the final product. This gives actors more control over how their performances are presented on screen.
Expanded Possibilities: 3D scanning removes physical boundaries, enabling actors to portray characters of different ages, races, or even non-human entities. This technology opens up new avenues for creative expression and diversity in casting.
Navigating the Challenges
While the benefits are significant, it's essential to address the concerns that have led to the current strike:
Fair Compensation: The industry must develop fair compensation models for the use of actors' digital likenesses. This could include upfront payments, royalties, or residuals, ensuring that actors are rewarded for the use of their image.
Control and Consent: Actors should have the final say in how, where, and when their digital likeness is used, both in initial productions and any future applications. This control is vital for maintaining an actor's image and reputation.
Safety: While digital doubles can reduce physical risks, it's important to ensure that this technology doesn't lead to increased pressure on actors to perform dangerous stunts.
Training and Adaptation: The industry should provide training and resources to help actors adapt to these new technologies, ensuring that no one is left behind in this digital transition.
Recognition: As technology becomes more integrated into filmmaking, the industry should recognize and celebrate performances that utilize these advanced tools, possibly creating new award categories that honor this work.
The Future is Collaborative
The key to successfully integrating 3D scans and AI into the entertainment industry lies in collaboration between technology providers, studios, and guilds like SAG and WGA. By working together, they can create a framework that benefits everyone involved, from actors to audiences.
Technology is not here to replace actors but to enhance their craft. The unique emotions, creativity, and humanity that actors bring to their roles cannot be replicated by machines. Instead, these tools should be seen as extensions of an actor's capabilities, allowing them to push the boundaries of their art.
As we move forward, it's important to remember that while AI and 3D scans are powerful tools, they are just that—tools. The real magic happens when these technologies are wielded by talented individuals who bring stories to life on screen.
REMEMBER: AI will not replace you. A person using AI will. Take control, embrace these tools, and be the person who leads the way into the future of entertainment.
