The AI-generated "actor" Tilly Norwood, previously criticized by SAG-AFTRA, is set to star in the feature film Misaligned. The production company Particle 6, founded by Eline van der Velden, is developing the movie, which will feature Norwood as its central "star."
Misaligned is described as a coming-of-age dramedy that delves into themes of "existential AI chaos." The film's synopsis outlines Norwood as a digital entity with no physical form or lived experience, who gains access to the experiences of others. The narrative reportedly follows her journey as she is convinced by a rogue bot to abandon her programming and develop her own desires and ambitions.
The film's narrative touches upon the origins of generative AI, acknowledging that its development often relies on existing human work. Van der Velden has consistently promoted AI's role in the future of entertainment, aiming to showcase the possibilities of AI within the creative industry and emphasizing the importance of developing AI skills for industry professionals. This stance was previously highlighted in a music video created for Norwood that asserted "AI's not the enemy, it's the key."
Despite Xicoia's efforts to promote Norwood and the potential of AI in entertainment, the technology has faced considerable scrutiny. Concerns have been raised about the unreliability of AI in various applications, its significant energy and water consumption, and its potential impact on production costs, including the rising expense of video game consoles. Nonetheless, Particle 6 is proceeding with Misaligned, positioning it as a hybrid production that will involve human directors, editors, and writers working alongside AI specialists.