TLDR: Disney considered using generative AI for a character named Bit in ‘Tron: Ares’ and deepfake technology to superimpose Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson’s face onto his stunt double for the live-action ‘Moana’ remake. Both initiatives were abandoned due to concerns regarding copyright ownership, data security, and potential public backlash.
Recent reports indicate that Disney explored the integration of advanced artificial intelligence technologies into two of its highly anticipated upcoming films: the live-action remake of ‘Moana’ and the sci-fi sequel ‘Tron: Ares’. However, both ventures into AI utilization were ultimately scrapped due to a confluence of concerns, including copyright ownership, information security, and potential negative public relations.
For the live-action ‘Moana’, Disney reportedly engaged in discussions with the AI company Metaphysic to develop a deepfake solution for Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson. The proposal involved creating a digital replica of Johnson’s face to be superimposed onto his cousin and long-time stunt double, Tanoai Reed, during filming. This strategy aimed to reduce Johnson’s required time on set. While Johnson himself reportedly approved the concept, negotiations between Disney and Metaphysic reached an impasse. Disney expressed significant concerns regarding the security of information involved in the process and, critically, the ownership of the intellectual property generated by the AI. Consequently, the plan was abandoned, and Johnson proceeded to film the scenes himself.
Separately, for ‘Tron: Ares’, a film inherently centered on the concept of sentient artificial intelligence, Disney considered introducing an entirely AI-generated character named Bit. This character was envisioned as a sidekick to Jeff Bridges’ character and was also seen as a potential marketing draw. Despite the thematic alignment, this idea was also discarded. The primary reasons cited were similar to those for ‘Moana’: ongoing copyright disputes surrounding AI technology and the potential for adverse public reaction to the use of AI in film production.
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The entertainment industry is currently grappling with the implications of generative AI, and Disney has been at the forefront of these discussions. The company has previously initiated lawsuits against generative AI firms, such as Midjourney, over alleged copyright infringement related to the training of AI models using copyrighted material. Disney’s CEO, Bob Iger, and Senior Executive Vice President, Chief Legal and Compliance Officer, Horacio Gutierrez, have reportedly engaged with White House officials to address these pressing copyright concerns. The decision to pull back on these AI applications in ‘Moana’ and ‘Tron: Ares’ underscores the complex legal, ethical, and public perception challenges that major studios face when considering the integration of cutting-edge AI technologies into their creative processes.
