The debate over artificial intelligence in the arts is set to intensify as Particle6, a UK-based company, announces its first feature-length film starring the AI-generated digital performer Tilly Norwood. The project, titled Misaligned, is described as a coming-of-age story infused with existential AI chaos, according to a press release from the company.
Norwood, created last year and marketed as the first AI actor by Particle6 and AI talent studio Xicoia, has been a lightning rod for controversy. The Hollywood actors' union SAG-AFTRA issued a statement last year condemning the concept, arguing that Norwood is a computer-generated character trained on the work of countless professional performers without permission or compensation. The union added that the AI lacks life experience, emotion, and audience appeal, and that it threatens performer livelihoods by devaluing human artistry.
Plot and Production Details
According to the synopsis, Misaligned follows an AI being who, encouraged by a seductive rogue bot from the dark web, begins developing desires, impulses, and ambitions of her own. As she becomes more terrifyingly human, her fame grows, and she starts to feel shame for being built on the whole of humanity. The film will feature a hybrid production team of real-life writers, editors, and directors, whom Particle6 has retrained and upskilled.
Eline van der Velden, CEO of Xicoia, stated in the release: "The film will absolutely be funny, chaotic and self-aware - very Tilly. But underneath it, there's something deeper about identity, performance and our very human fears around AI. And yes, art will most definitely be imitating life." She also noted that AI can support premium narrative filmmaking, but only with substantial human craft, skill, judgment, and time.
The announcement follows Norwood's music video debut in March, which featured the song Take The Lead. Euronews Culture described the track as "audio poison" and an insipid piece of AI propaganda. No release date for Misaligned has been announced.
The broader context of AI-generated content has sparked similar controversies across Europe. For instance, AI-generated images have been used to spread misinformation, and falsely claim attacks were staged. The entertainment industry is also grappling with these issues, as seen in the backlash over Netflix's use of an AI-generated Gene Wilder voice.
Critics argue that projects like Misaligned represent a troubling trend where technology undermines human creativity and labor. The film's self-aware premise, which mirrors its own controversial creation, may do little to assuage concerns about the ethical implications of AI in the arts.
