The Russo brothers' new Netflix film, The Electric State, has generated significant buzz since its release, sparking considerable discussion about its use of AI, particularly in voice modulation. Joe Russo, director of Avengers: Infinity War and Avengers: Endgame, defended this use, stating it was a relatively simple technique, accessible even to a ten-year-old familiar with TikTok. He acknowledged the current limitations of AI, referring to its "hallucinations," which prevent its use in mission-critical applications like self-driving cars or AI-assisted surgery. However, he sees significant creative potential in AI's generative state.
This perspective contrasts with the views of many artists who see AI as antithetical to creativity. Despite this, some studios are enthusiastic about AI's future applications. In July 2024, Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos asserted that audiences are unconcerned about AI's use in film and television, arguing it enhances storytelling, much like the transition from hand-drawn to CGI animation improved the quality and expanded the industry.
However, not all embrace AI wholeheartedly. Last month, Marvel denied using AI in creating teaser posters for The Fantastic Four: First Steps, despite an anomaly in one image.
The Electric State, directed by Anthony and Joe Russo, adapted from Simon Stalenhag's 2018 novel, boasts a star-studded cast including Millie Bobby Brown, Chris Pratt, Ke Huy Quan, Woody Harrelson, Jason Alexander, Anthony Mackie, Jenny Slate, Giancarlo Esposito, Brian Cox, and Stanley Tucci. IGN's review gave the film a 4/10, criticizing it as a costly disappointment.
The Russo brothers are set to direct the next two Avengers films: Avengers: Doomsday (2026) and Avengers: Secret Wars (2027).
