Oscars 2024: AI’s Quiet Role in Hollywood—and Why It Won’t Get Nominated

Every Oscars season, Hollywood celebrates “human artistry” while quietly adopting whatever tech makes the deadline less terrifying. This year, artificial intelligence (AI) is the newest crew member: it doesn’t need a trailer, and it definitely won’t complain about craft-services hummus. The only catch? Nobody wants it walking the red carpet.

The Academy’s Neutrality Is a Choice

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has adopted a carefully neutral stance on the use of AI in films vying for Oscars, stating that generative AI and other digital tools “neither help nor harm” a film’s chances. Branches will judge the work considering “the degree to which a human was at the heart of the creative authorship,” according to the Academy’s rules update. This effectively creates a “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy, where productions aren’t required to disclose AI workflows, and campaigns decide what to volunteer.

The least controversial applications of AI are those focused on efficiency – dialogue cleanup, automated sound balancing, and stabilization in post-production. This represents AI as a productivity tool, increasing output without fundamentally altering creative intent. More complex uses, such as machine learning tools used for facial performance modification, remain within artist-driven workflows.

Best (until it isn’t): AI Used to Fine-Tune Performances

Brady Corbet’s “The Brutalist” became a focal point of the debate after an editor revealed that AI voice technology was used to refine Hungarian pronunciations in post-production. Filmmakers emphasized that the technology didn’t replace performances, but rather enhanced them. This example is significant because the use of AI to alter vocal or facial performances raises questions about authorship and the role of the human artist.

“Emilia Pérez” is another example, with reports detailing the use of AI to blend vocals and broaden a performer’s singing range. This type of AI enhancement is comparable to auto-tune, accepted by many but sensitive to disclosure.

Worst: Generative AI that Reads like a Shortcut

Marvel’s “Secret Invasion” faced criticism for its AI-generated opening credits, which some viewed as an automation of artistic work rather than a creative necessity. This highlighted the reputational risk associated with visible AI applications, as audiences may be more tolerant of invisible AI assistance.

The indie horror film “Late Night With the Devil” also drew scrutiny following reports that it included AI-generated imagery, prompting clarifications from the filmmakers. Even limited use of generative imagery can quickly become a public relations issue.

The Ethical Third Rail: Synthetic Voices in Nonfiction

The Anthony Bourdain documentary “Roadrunner” sparked controversy after it was revealed that AI was used to recreate Bourdain’s voice for a few lines. This raised ethical questions about consent and viewer trust, particularly given that documentaries are generally presented as authentic creations. The use of synthetic audio in nonfiction content can undermine credibility.

Will the Oscars Telecast Include Any AI Applications?

There is no public indication that the Oscars telecast will feature generative AI on air. However, machine learning is likely already playing a role in the broadcast infrastructure, particularly in areas such as accessibility and rapid clip distribution. The Academy highlights the use of live captions, live audio description, and an ASL livestream on YouTube, all of which are increasingly reliant on AI-supported technologies. The captioning industry itself is evolving from human stenography toward advanced AI, supported by human input.

For now, the Academy’s stance positions AI as Hollywood’s newest open secret: pervasive in the workflow, yet largely absent from public discussion. The most successful applications of AI appear to be those that keep humans at the center of the creative process and treat the technology as a tool. The least successful applications treat creativity as a cost center or disregard the importance of trust.

If AI wins anything this year, it will be as Best Supporting Tool: always present, rarely acknowledged, and certainly not invited to the after-party.