Sandra Bullock backs ‘constructive’ use of AI in Hollywood films

Sandra Bullock believes Hollywood should embrace AI cautiously and creatively, acknowledging its potential and risks. Photo / Getty Images

Sandra Bullock believes Hollywood needs to “lean into” artificial intelligence.

The 61-year-old actor’s new film, Practical Magic 2, has inspired a number of fans to use the technology to create their own trailers for the film. While she warned of the need to exercise caution over how it is used, Bullock believes there is “a place” for artificial intelligence (AI) to be used in the entertainment industry.

Speaking at the CNBC Changemakers Summit, she quipped: “Well, there could be worse with my image. Sorry.”

Growing more serious, she added: “But it’s here. We have to observe it. We have to understand it. We have to lean into it. We have to use it in a really constructive and creative way, make it our friend.

“We have to be incredibly cautious and aware of it because there are people who will use it for evil and not good. I do feel that there’s a place for it.”

Studio Warner Bros. acknowledged the unofficial Practical Magic 2 AI trailers are not “great” but thinks they highlight people’s interest in the film.

Warner Bros Motion Pictures co-chair and chief executive Pam Abdy said: “I know it’s not great, but it’s also exciting. Because that means that there’s a desire for it and that means that people want to come and play with the movie.”

Sandra isn’t the only Hollywood star to look at the positive side of AI.

Uma Thurman recently insisted she doesn’t “see the point” of being “nervous” about the technology.

She told America’s InStyle magazine: “I’m sure there are going to be great positives, and I’m sure there’s going to be great cost, which is the case with most things.

“I don’t see the point in getting nervous. The whole idea of a ‘new normal’ is scheduled heartbreak.

“Our challenge is to be fluid and dextrous and open-minded and positive.

“What else are we doing on this planet?”

Director James Cameron recently admitted he is interested in how AI could be used to cut special effects costs, though he isn’t convinced the technology will take over the world in the way some people fear.

The Avatar: Fire and Ash film-maker told The Times newspaper: “Well, artificial super-intelligence is a really bad idea.

“Because societally we can’t agree on one goddamn thing and until we can agree on what is good, virtuous, ethical and moral, we cannot teach a machine to do that and run things for us. So guys, stop.”