James Hawes Predicts AI-Generated TV Series in 3-5 Years
UK director James Hawes, behind “Slow Horses” and “One Life”, foresees television series entirely produced by generative AI in the near future.
The director behind the acclaimed series “Slow Horses” and the Anthony Hopkins-starring film “One Life,” James Hawes, has shared his prediction: a television series entirely made by generative artificial intelligence (AI) could be just three to five years away. This forecast comes at a time when the entertainment industry is grappling with the implications of AI, especially the new OpenAI tool Sora, on creativity, production, and the essence of storytelling.
Hawes, who has become a notable figure in the industry not only for his directorial achievements but also as the vice chair of Directors UK, shared his insights following discussions with legal teams at SAG-AFTRA and the WGA, as well as a poll among fellow directors and VFX workers. This inquiry was partly spurred by the BBC's decision to cancel the long-running drama "Doctors," which prompted Hawes to explore the potential for AI in series production. His findings, which he revealed during his testimony to the British Film & High-End TV Inquiry, suggest a near-future where AI could generate scenes with a complexity and emotional depth previously thought to be the sole province of human creativity.
The implications of such a technological leap are profound, particularly for the training and development of below-the-line staff, a concern Hawes did not shy away from. The director fears that reliance on AI could undermine these vital training grounds, echoing concerns about the potential loss of hands-on experience for industry newcomers. Yet, Hawes also acknowledges the unstoppable advance of AI technology, citing the recent launch of OpenAI's Sora model, capable of generating complex and consistent scenes. These conversations underline the international nature of the debate, with stakeholders worldwide recognizing the need to address the challenges and opportunities presented by AI.
Despite his embrace of technological advancements, Hawes remains a steadfast advocate for the irreplaceable human creativity and spontaneity in production. He mentions a moment on the set of “One Life” when Anthony Hopkins' impromptu piano performance became a memorable part of the film, a serendipitous event that AI could never replicate.
Hawes’ insights come at a critical juncture for the British film and TV industry, as it faces challenges ranging from financing and tax credits to diversity. His observations contribute to a broader inquiry led by the UK's Culture, Media & Sport Committee, which aims to address these pressing issues. With notable figures like Gurinder Chadha and Rebecca O'Brien adding their voices to the discussion, the inquiry is setting the stage for a comprehensive examination of the industry's future in an age of unparalleled technological change.