THE OVERVIEW
Jeffrey Katzenberg, DreamWorks co-founder, envisions a future where AI could slash the workforce needed for animation by a staggering 90%.
With The Animation Guild’s contract due to expire in 2024, anxiety is mounting among animators over the impending influence of AI on their jobs.
Calls for safeguards against AI are echoing across the industry, with many professionals voicing their concerns about the future of animation work.
A bold boundary was set by DreamWorks’ Jeffrey Katzenberg as the expiration of The Animation Guild’s contract looms in 2024. At the Bloomberg New Economy Forum in Singapore, Katzenberg, in a 3-minute exposition, advocated for AI in crafting full-length animated films, suggesting a dramatic reduction in workforce. He posited, “In the not-too-distant past, assembling an animated movie required 500 artists and half a decade. I anticipate in three years, it might not even take a tenth of that labor force.”
“In my view, few sectors will be as transformed by AI as those involved in creating media and entertainment,” Katzenberg introduced his provocative stance. He drew parallels with past technological leaps that enhanced creative storytelling, from pens and paintbrushes to cameras. These advancements democratized content creation, but also cast a shadow of concern among creatives.
Anticipating AI Disputes, The Animation Guild May Consider a Strike
Noteworthy is the fact that AI was a contentious issue during the historic WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes, with the latter concluding recently. These disputes ultimately culminated in protections against AI for actors and writers. Now, as the industry giants and figures like Katzenberg advocate for AI, animation seems to be the upcoming arena for conflict. The Animation Guild, or TAG, is preparing for a potential strike when their contract ends in 2024. TAG announced on the day of Katzenberg’s comments, not in direct response, that they’ve been proactively working to safeguard their members against AI implications, aiming to offer strategic recommendations for the upcoming negotiation period.
Animation Community Initiates Early Defense Against AI
Even with TAG’s contract expiration still a ways off, industry creators are already rallying for preemptive action against AI. Giancarlo Volpe, with credits on shows like “King of the Hill” and “The Dragon Prince,” referenced the SAG-AFTRA victory in his tweet, urging animators to take a similar stance in their upcoming negotiations.
Michael Rianda, the mind behind “The Mitchells vs. the Machines,” echoed TAG’s concerns, asserting on Twitter that studios should not replace even a single artist with AI, suggesting that it poses a severe threat to the industry.
Industry Reaction to Katzenberg’s Predictions
While TAG and certain creators took a general stance, others addressed Katzenberg’s assertions head-on. Helluva Boss animator José B. Rebolledo offered a simple, defiant response to ToonHive’s coverage: “I dare him.”
Oscar winner Matthew A. Cherry amplified a call to action on Twitter, while WGA Captain Chandra Thomas confirmed the urgent sentiment in the animation community.
As Jeffrey Katzenberg’s remarks ripple through the animation industry, the scene is set for a significant showdown over AI’s role in animation. Katzenberg’s full commentary is available for viewing below.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about AI in animation industry
What did Jeffrey Katzenberg say about AI in animation?
Jeffrey Katzenberg, co-founder of DreamWorks, suggested that AI could drastically reduce the number of artists needed to make animated movies, potentially cutting the workforce by 90%.
Is The Animation Guild preparing for a strike over AI concerns?
Yes, with their contract expiring in 2024, The Animation Guild has been working with experts to protect its members from the impact of AI, which may lead to a strike.
Have any industry professionals responded to the AI issue in animation?
Indeed, several professionals like Giancarlo Volpe and Michael Rianda have called for action to protect animation jobs from being replaced by AI, reflecting a growing concern within the industry.
What is the industry’s stance on AI replacing animators?
While some industry leaders advocate for AI, many animators and creators are pushing back, calling for protections and discussing the possibility of strikes to safeguard human jobs.
How are animation creators reacting to Katzenberg’s comments on AI?
Animation creators are responding with a mix of defiance and concern. Some challenge Katzenberg’s view, while others amplify the call for union action to protect jobs against AI displacement.
More about AI in animation industry
- Katzenberg’s AI Prediction Shakes Animation Industry
- The Animation Guild’s AI Task Force
- Animation Community’s Response to AI
- Industry Professionals Rally Against AI in Animation
- Creators Confront AI Job Threat in Animation
4 comments
can’t believe what i’m reading Katzenberg really said that? That’s cold, even for a big shot producer… respect the craft, dude
Heard about the guild maybe striking, solidarity brothers and sisters! Our pencils mightier than the code.
so now computers are the new artists? what’s next, AI’s gonna win Oscars too? give me a break…
Man, if AI’s gonna snatch our jobs, where’s the art gonna be? it’s called “art”imation for a reason… not “automat”ion!