AI Tools Revolutionize Filmmaking: Speeding Production and Raising Concerns

In a transformative shift within the film industry, artificial intelligence (AI) tools are enabling filmmakers to produce high-quality content at unprecedented speeds. This evolution has sparked a discussion about the implications for creativity, copyright, and the future of storytelling.

On July 20, 2025, the technology editor of The Guardian, Dan Milmo, reported on the groundbreaking work of directors Samir Mallal and Bouha Kazmi, who utilized AI to create a short film titled "Midnight Drop." The film, which depicts a fictional narrative surrounding recent US attacks on Iranian nuclear sites, was produced entirely using AI technologies within a mere two weeks. In stark contrast, traditional filmmaking processes often span years and require substantial financial investments.

Mallal, a London-based documentary filmmaker known for his previous works, emphasized the potential for AI to revolutionize how stories are told, noting, "We’ve never seen a cinematic news piece before turned around in two weeks." This sentiment resonates with many in the industry, as evidenced by Richard Osman, a prominent TV producer, who proclaimed this moment as the end of an era in entertainment history, stating on his podcast, "The Rest is Entertainment," that by 2027, AI will dominate the production of content such as TikTok videos, advertisements, and trailers.

The rapid development of AI tools, particularly Google's video generation model Veo3, has also enabled filmmakers to enhance their creative processes significantly. According to Mallal, the integration of AI allows for quicker adjustments and greater efficiency, leading to what he describes as "prompt craft"—the art of instructing AI systems effectively to achieve desired results. This innovation has led to projects like "Spiders in the Sky," which dramatizes a Ukrainian drone attack on Russian targets, completed in a fraction of the time typically required for similar productions.

Despite the excitement surrounding these advancements, significant concerns regarding copyright and intellectual property rights loom large. Critics argue that the use of AI in creative fields raises ethical questions about the ownership of artistic works. Beeban Kidron, a prominent advocate for artists' rights, voiced her apprehension over government proposals in the UK that would permit AI models to be trained on copyrighted material without explicit consent from creators. She asserts, "Creators need equity in the new system or we lose something precious."

This debate is further complicated by the fact that platforms like YouTube, owned by Google, have policies that allow the use of creators' content for training AI models. Mallal has expressed a desire for a system that ensures artists receive fair compensation for their work, reflecting a broader sentiment within the creative industries.

As the film industry grapples with these technological advancements, the implications for storytelling, creativity, and copyright will continue to evolve. Industry leaders like David Jones, CEO of Brandtech Group, predict a future where a significant portion of brand content will be generated using AI, leading to a fundamental transformation in how media is created and consumed.

While the potential for efficiency and innovation in filmmaking is undeniable, the ongoing dialogue about the ethical use of AI highlights the need for a framework that protects the rights of creators while embracing the benefits of technological progress. As the landscape of filmmaking changes, stakeholders must navigate the delicate balance between fostering creativity and safeguarding artistic integrity.