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Artificial intelligence (AI) is hotly debated over its use in yet another industry as Hollywood and the big media industry face petitions from the Writers Guild of America (WGA).
The WGA recently sent out a list of requirements that included regulating the use of AI in projects covered by the Minimum Basic Agreement (MBA). It stated that AI should not be used to write or rewrite literary material, nor should it be used as source material.
In addition, it was required that MBA program materials not be used in AI training. In its initial statement back in March, the guild wrote:
“The WGA’s proposal to regulate the use of content created using artificial intelligence or similar technologies ensures that companies can’t use AI to undermine writers’ work standards, including compensation, balances, individual rights and credits.”
However, the Hollywood studios formally rejected the demands and responded by offering “annual meetings to discuss advances in technology”.
This AI-related issue was one of many, including compensation and working conditions, that pushed the WGA into a sanctioned strike in Los Angeles on May 2 for the first time in 15 years.
Scabby won’t let AI write, or rewrite, their script. #WGAStrike #1u https://t.co/nTebf308YV
— Writers Guild of America, East (@WGAEast) May 3, 2023
Ellen Stutzman, chief negotiator for the WGA, called the proposal “reasonable” and said that AI should “be kept out of TV and film scripting.” She also noted that some members of the guild have coined the name “plagiarism machine” for the AI.
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AI tools are already being rolled out in Hollywood to brighten up visual effects and rejuvenate actors, among other things.
The stance of Hollywood production studios on being open to new technologies such as AI is different from that of large companies in other creative industries such as the music industry.
Universal Music Group’s initial response, after AI-generated music began to appear on streaming services, was to hunt for their removal as well as lawsuits. Although some big name artists in the industry are encouraging the use of this technology.
