On Wednesday morning, Disney+ subscribers were treated to the first episode of Marvel Studios’ Secret Invasion, a highly anticipated series that explores the infiltration of shape-shifting aliens on Earth. The opening sequence of the show, which highlighted the mystery surrounding the invasion, sparked a discussion online after it was revealed that artificial intelligence (AI) was used in its creation. However, Method Studios, the company behind the opening, wants to clarify the reports and reassure fans that AI was just one tool among many used by their artists, and no jobs were replaced by its incorporation.
Method Studios, known for their exceptional visual effects work on films like Top Gun: Maverick, has released a statement to The Hollywood Reporter explaining their use of AI in the Secret Invasion opening. They confirm that existing and custom AI tools were utilized to create the characters’ attributes and movements. However, they emphasize that the entire production of the opening involved the collaboration and work of traditional artists, including the art department, animators, compositors, and more.
Ali Selim, the director and executive producer of Secret Invasion, also clarified the use of AI in the opening sequence. He mentioned in an interview with Polygon that they would discuss ideas, themes, and words with the AI, and then the computer would generate something based on those discussions. They would then make adjustments using words, allowing the AI to adapt the sequence accordingly. Selim admitted that he didn’t fully understand the technical aspects of the AI tool, but acknowledged its contribution to the creative process.
The use of AI in Hollywood has been a subject of great interest and controversy. The potential of AI to streamline and enhance various aspects of the filmmaking process has led to discussions about its impact on traditional jobs within the industry. While the incorporation of AI tools in Secret Invasion’s opening sequence generated speculation about artists losing their jobs, Method Studios wants to assure everyone that this was not the case. AI served as a complementary tool, assisting their creative teams and enhancing the overall production process.
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Method Studios acknowledges that working on Secret Invasion provided them with an exceptional opportunity to explore the intriguing realm of AI. This specific application of AI in creating unique character attributes and movements aligned perfectly with the project’s theme and desired aesthetic. However, they emphasize the collaborative and iterative nature of the production process, highlighting the dedicated efforts of art directors, animators proficient in both 2D and 3D animation, artists, and developers.
Their statement emphasizes that AI is just one tool among many that their artists use. AI technologies were skillfully leveraged by Method Studios’ team of designers to achieve the otherworldly and alien look required for Secret Invasion. From the initial storyboard phase to illustration, AI generation, 2D/3D animation, and final compositing, the entire process was guided by expert art direction and involved the use of both existing and custom AI tools.
In conclusion, Method Studios wants to clear up any misunderstandings surrounding the use of AI in the opening sequence of Secret Invasion. They assure fans that no jobs were replaced by AI and that it served as a valuable tool that complemented and assisted their talented creative teams. The incorporation of AI in the production process allowed for the creation of unique character attributes and movements, enhancing the overall visual experience of the show. Method Studios’ statement highlights the collaborative nature of the production process and reaffirms their commitment to utilizing a variety of tools to bring their artistic visions to life.
