Lionsgate Partners with AI to Enhance Learning Model Using Its Movies and TV Shows

AI startup Runway is making waves with its generative models that draw on unlicensed content from across the internet. The company has recently partnered with Lionsgate, granting access to the studio's extensive library of films and TV shows. Lionsgate, known for blockbuster franchises like John Wick and Hunger Games, aims to leverage this collaboration to develop a customized video generation model that will empower filmmakers and directors to enhance their creative processes.

Michael Burns, Lionsgate's vice chair, highlighted the partnership as a pathway to “capital-efficient content creation opportunities” and emphasized its potential to improve existing operations. He mentioned that several filmmakers are already enthusiastic about exploring the technology's applications in both pre-production and post-production.

Runway co-founder and CEO Cristóbal Valenzuela echoed these sentiments, expressing the intent to provide filmmakers with innovative tools for storytelling. However, specific details regarding compensation for creative teams whose work may contribute to the model's training remain unclear. The opportunity to reduce production costs likely influenced Lionsgate's decision, particularly given its preference for smaller budgets.

This partnership emerges during a period when studios are increasingly integrating AI into their workflows, despite filmmakers voicing concerns over job security and the technology’s implications. The use of AI-generated replicas of background performers was a significant issue leading to the SAG-AFTRA strike last year.

In response to these industry concerns, California Governor Gavin Newsom recently signed two SAG-AFTRA-supported bills that enhance performers' control over the use of their digital likenesses. Additionally, legislation poised for approval, SB 1047, would hold AI developers accountable for potential harms caused by their products.