AI Can Be a Game-Changer, But We Must Use it Responsibly

by

In Black Mirror season 7, AI is coming for the film industry.

In the newest season of Charlie Brooker’s sci-fi anthology series on Netflix, there was no doubt he would delve into discussions surrounding AI. Given his history of exploring this topic since the show’s debut on Channel 4, episodes such as Be Right Back from 2013 and White Christmas in 2014 are a testament to this continued focus.

Indeed, AI has found extensive use in the realm of television and cinema. However, the application of AI might soon feel more personal for both on-screen and off-screen talents, as evidenced by the debut of the latest episode Hotel Reverie, featuring Emma Corrin and Issa Rae.

At Hotel Reverie, Dorothy Chambers (Corrin), a renowned Hollywood actress, is brought back to life via AI technology, starring in a futuristic reimagining of an old-fashioned romance. However, when Brandy Friday (Rae) finds herself inserted into this remake, sharing the screen with AI characters, she discovers that although the world she’s entered might be artificial, it holds a depth and authenticity far beyond anything she had previously imagined.

However, although the creator Brooker highlights that people are rightfully afraid of artificial intelligence, there is a means to prevent the dark scenarios depicted in Black Mirror from materializing in our world – despite them appearing more plausible than ever before.

Essentially, I believe that just about everyone feels a slight shiver of apprehension or worry when considering its potential.

Yet, he notes: “In essence, this technology is no different from any other, holding immense potential – tremendous potential. I envision its utility as a versatile instrument, either for artistic expression or medical advancements, and it could indeed bring about significant transformations.

I can only wish that we handle this resource wisely, ensuring it doesn’t lead to widespread unemployment or disrupt the well-being of all Earth’s inhabitants. We are truly remarkable beings who have fashioned an extraordinary invention. Its potential is undeniably immense, making us all the more cautious about how we employ it.

Although it may not rival the futuristic technology of Hotel Reverie, several well-known actors from the entertainment industry have been brought back to life digitally for new ventures. For instance, Peter Cushing, Carrie Fisher, and Paul Walker have all reappeared in their respective franchises posthumously, thanks to advanced digital recreation following their demise.

A potential new venture is called “Back to Eden,” where artificial intelligence (AI) similar to deepfake technology will be utilized to recreate the likeness of the late actor James Dean.

In another location, the digital replica of the late Sir Michael Parkinson, who passed away in 2023, continues to host the podcast Virtually Parkinson. This podcast features celebrities being interviewed by this digital representation of the popular broadcaster.

From my perspective as a devoted fan, it seems that these scenarios have sparked quite a debate. Yet, none of them seem to have overstepped any boundaries just yet, perhaps because the essence of all these endeavors lies in the need for human ingenuity. However, one could also argue that this is still present in Hotel Reverie, given that Rae’s character, Brandy, delivers a very human-like performance.

In a natural and easier-to-understand manner, we could say that Corrin, who plays both the role of AI character Clara and actress Dorothy within the series ‘Black Mirror’s Hotel Reverie’, expresses a sense of fear or dread about the potential capabilities of artificial intelligence.

They express concern about several aspects of it: its vast possibilities, the risk it poses to outshine human creativity and job opportunities, and the potential threats it may present, are truly alarming.

It seems there are many aspects of it that remain mysterious to me, making it challenging to discuss. To put it simply, I sincerely hope we never reach a stage where we forsake real-life conversations, as they appear indispensable – what else is there if not these interactions?

I believe this concept can be applied to everyday life, and it underscores the importance of human connection which seems to be diminishing or shifting in today’s world. Perhaps it’s hinting at the fact that any method we use to connect with others is still valuable, as there’s always an opportunity to forge a bond.

Jessica Rhoades, a producer from Black Mirror, shares her perspective: “I believe we all still value the human aspect. We might discuss the benefits of video calls like Zoom and remote work, which are fantastic technologies when utilized correctly, offering tremendous convenience. However, it’s essential not to overlook the human element.

Every now and then, there are instances where I engage with someone on a three-dimensional level, and I find myself realizing how distinct it is compared to other interactions. This unique experience reminds me of the contrast between AI-generated and human-created artwork – a stark difference that’s hard to ignore.

Regarding discussions on AI, it appears we frequently find ourselves at a common point – despite our best efforts, human interaction and creative ingenuity remain integral components in the process. This is especially true when considering artistic endeavors such as film and television production.

Hotel Reverie, while boasting a tragic finale typical of Black Mirror, surprisingly adopts a more optimistic tone in certain aspects. Although the story revolves around artificial intelligence, it’s humans who are central to the narrative and orchestrating events from behind the scenes, at least for a period.

It’s clear that artificial intelligence is rapidly advancing and transforming, which could potentially put us in a precarious situation, as Brooker cautions. However, as they, Brooker, Rhoades, and Corrin suggest, there are still strands of optimism we can cling to for the moment.

Read More

2025-04-11 10:04