Filmmakers and technologists at FilMart discussed how directable AI, such as Kling AI's 3.0 model, is transforming film and TV production. The technology promises greater efficiency for smaller Asian industries, though concerns about job changes and quality persist. Experts highlighted its use in productions like the series 'Swords Into Plowshares'.
At the FilMart event, conversations centered on 'directable AI', tools offering filmmakers precise control over elements like movement and composition, previously handled by costly VFX teams. Kling AI, from China-listed Kuaishou, showcased its February-released 3.0 model, featuring advanced camera control and character consistency. This was demonstrated in the historical drama series 'Swords Into Plowshares', aired on CCTV1. Chen Yi, founder of Timeaxis Studios, noted that Kling AI integrated into every production stage, from pre-vis to final effects, including animating a scavenging raven composited onto live-action plates. 'AI-enhanced workflows proved to be three to four times more efficient than traditional CG,' Chen said, predicting up to eight to 10 times efficiency once technical limitations are resolved. Singaporean director Gavin Lim, known for 'Diamond Dogs' and founder of AI Film Lab, emphasized AI's role in commercials due to their short lifespan. He argued it levels the playing field: 'Gen AI is going to help small, less-capitalized film industries in Asia compete with multi-million dollar budgets on a visual scale.' Lim criticized U.S. models for mishandling Asian faces and predicted the decline of LED virtual production. A Kling AI representative foresaw new roles like AI VFX artists. Producer Tan Bee Thiam views AI as a development tool, not a replacement: 'We use it as a starting point rather than the end.' Lim warned against 'AI slop', such as unauthorized celebrity deepfakes, urging respect for original deliberation in filmmaking.