Disney forms task force to study AI applications and cut costs amid Hollywood's writers and actors strike

livemint.com:

start-ups, as informed by three sources who spoke to Reuters. Disney presently has 11 open job positions that call for individuals well-versed in artificial intelligence or machine learning.

These roles span virtually every facet of the company, ranging from Walt Disney Studios and the engineering division to the theme parks and Walt Disney Imagineering, as well as Disney-branded television and the advertising team, which aims to build an AI-powered ad system for the future, as indicated in the job descriptions. AI has ignited considerable debate in Hollywood, where writers and actors perceive it as a potential threat to job security.

This matter has become central to contract negotiations involving organisations like the Screen Actors Guild and the Writers Guild of America, both of which are currently on strike. A spokesperson for Disney chose not to comment on this matter.

One executive who has worked with Disney conveyed that "AI research at Disney has a long history and is centred around all the topics being discussed today: Can we develop something that aids us in creating movies, games, or conversational robots within theme parks for people to interact with?" One of the insiders, an internal advocate speaking anonymously due to the sensitive nature of the subject, emphasised that traditional media companies like Disney must either embrace AI or face the risk of becoming obsolete. This supporter perceives AI as a potential tool to mitigate the escalating costs associated with film and television production, which can skyrocket to $300 million for major releases such as "Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny" or "The Little Mermaid." Over time, savings could be substantial, the individual explained.