Paul Schrader Says ‘We’re Only Two Years Away From the First AI Feature’ — and He Has the ‘Perfect Script’ for It

Veteran filmmaker Paul Schrader, known for his incisive screenwriting for classics like “Taxi Driver” and his acclaimed directorial work on films such as “First Reformed,” has recently made a compelling declaration regarding the future of cinema: “We’re Only Two Years Away From the First AI Feature” — and he believes he possesses the “Perfect Script” for it. This bold statement underscores a growing conversation within Hollywood about the accelerating integration of artificial intelligence into the filmmaking process.

Paul Schrader’s Vision for AI in Film

Schrader’s perspective on AI in filmmaking is not one of trepidation but rather of practical embrace. He views artificial intelligence as another tool in a creator’s arsenal, akin to how an author uses words to sculpt emotions or an actor uses their craft to convey a character’s reaction. Schrader shared in an interview with Vanity Fair that he believes movies are “going to be more and more AI” and that a fully AI-generated feature film is imminent, potentially within just two years. He even disclosed that he has a specific screenplay in mind, remarking, “this would be a perfect script to do all AI”.

AI as a Creative Tool, Not a Replacement

For Schrader, the essence of storytelling remains, even as the means of execution evolve. He elaborated on this by comparing AI’s role to that of an artist. Just as a writer codes emotions into text, or an actor embodies them physically, AI could, in his view, “pixelate” and “create the face, and… the emotion on the face,” effectively sculpting expressions and reactions in a manner similar to how an author crafts a narrative. This outlook suggests a collaborative future where human creativity guides AI capabilities, rather than being overshadowed by them.

The Rapid Advance of AI in Hollywood

Schrader’s predictions are not made in a vacuum. The film industry has already witnessed significant inroads by AI technologies. Reports have highlighted the emergence of figures like Tilly Norwood, identified as the first “AI actress,” and even the production of a fully AI-directed film. These developments signify a rapid shift, pushing the boundaries of what was once considered solely human domain in film production.

AI’s Role Beyond Production

Beyond creative execution, Schrader also foresees AI playing a substantial role in other facets of the film industry, particularly in critical analysis. He suggested that “AI is taking over film coverage” and anticipates that AI could soon be generating film reviews. Schrader posits that AI could offer a more objective analysis compared to human critics, noting, “AI does better coverage than the average coverage. And AI doesn’t have to favor anybody”. This could potentially revolutionize how films are assessed and discussed.

Previous Explorations with AI for Story Ideas

This isn’t Schrader’s first public endorsement of AI’s potential in storytelling. Earlier, he explored the capabilities of AI chatbots, specifically ChatGPT, to generate film plots. He recounted being “stunned” by the quality and originality of ideas produced by ChatGPT for various renowned filmmakers, including himself, Quentin Tarantino, and Martin Scorsese. He questioned the traditional, time-consuming methods of script development, suggesting, “Why should writers sit around for months searching for a good idea when AI can provide one in seconds?” This experience clearly cemented his belief in AI as a powerful ideation tool.

The Path to the First AI Feature

The concept of a complete AI feature film raises numerous questions about authorship, artistic vision, and the evolving role of human creators. While the technology is rapidly advancing, the journey to a fully realized and critically acclaimed AI feature will likely involve intricate collaborations and innovative approaches to storytelling. Schrader’s conviction and his “perfect script” provide a tangible focal point for these discussions, pushing the industry to consider not if, but when, AI will truly become a co-creator in cinematic history.

Conclusion

Paul Schrader’s assertion that “We’re Only Two Years Away From the First AI Feature” and his revelation of having the “perfect script” for such an endeavor mark a pivotal moment in the discourse surrounding artificial intelligence and cinema. His pragmatic view of AI as a tool, coupled with the rapid advancements in the field, suggests a near future where the lines between human and artificial creativity in filmmaking may become increasingly blurred. As the industry grapples with the implications, Schrader’s vision challenges conventional notions and paves the way for a new era of cinematic expression.