Despite ongoing debates within Hollywood regarding the integration of artificial intelligence in filmmaking, actor and director Mark Wahlberg asserts that the technology can be beneficial to the industry when utilized appropriately. Wahlberg, who also engages in entrepreneurship and angel investing, took the opportunity at TechCrunch Disrupt to express his views on the potential of AI in film production, indicating his willingness to allow an AI representation of himself to perpetuate his legacy.
The actor revealed his intention to possibly incorporate AI to enhance specific elements of the forthcoming biopic about Pete Rose, in which he will portray the lead character. “It’s a fairly expensive movie, but we’re discussing the use of [AI] to improve the stadium environment, among other aspects,” Wahlberg stated. “I don’t believe one should simply input an idea into ChatGPT and produce a script to be filmed without real actors. However, if it can be used to augment what you are creating, I fully support that.” Nonetheless, Wahlberg emphasized the importance of storytelling as the core of filmmaking.
“I’ve participated in large-scale, effects-driven films,” Wahlberg remarked. “I believe I was fortunate to be part of that pivotal moment when the original Jurassic Park was released, or when Perfect Storm premiered, showcasing groundbreaking technology with computer-generated imagery. Currently, I find it challenging to replicate that, so I’m not particularly enthusiastic about effects-driven films compared to genuine storytelling.”
When questioned by TechCrunch Editor-in-Chief Connie Loizos about whether he had explored the CAA Vault, a facility by Creative Artists Agency that allows actors to utilize scanning technology for creating AI replicas of their bodies, faces, movements, and voices, Wahlberg admitted he had not yet visited but expressed openness to the concept. “I would be intrigued because I believe that in the future, if this is the direction we are heading, it would be fascinating for my children or grandchildren to manage my likeness and image, potentially placing me in some noteworthy films,” Wahlberg commented. “It will be interesting to observe how things evolve.”
He even mentioned that he would not oppose the continuation of his upcoming animated series, “Ted,” for decades with an AI version of himself. “I think it’s fascinating if I am no longer able to participate or no longer exist, and if it could persist and audiences wish to see it, I think it would be intriguing to see how things unfold,” Wahlberg noted. “There are certain elements from my childhood that I wish still existed and remained a part of my life […] I would not be against it. I believe people will have tremendous opportunities to view whatever they desire, and if there is a genuine audience for that, they should have the right to see what they want.”
