I Spent 3 Years Trying To Write A Screenplay With AI... Here's The Truth - Russell Palmer

Summary

Russell Palmer, Co-Founder of CyberFilm AI, discusses the limitations of AI in writing full screenplays, emphasizing that current AI tools like ChatGPT struggle with consistency and exporting large documents. He suggests AI can aid in the initial draft but not in creating a complete, polished script. He also highlights the potential of AI in storyboarding and virtual performances.

Takeaways

• 🚫 AI cannot currently write a full 120-page screenplay. It struggles with consistency and coherence beyond a few pages.
• 📚 ChatGPT has limitations in output length and user interaction, making it unsuitable for creating complete scripts.
• 🎬 The concept of 'hallucinations' in AI refers to the degradation in quality as the generated content extends beyond the initial few pages.
• 💡 AI can assist in the initial draft or 'vomit draft' phase, speeding up the process but not replacing the need for human editing and vision.
• ⏱ The time to write a screenplay using AI should focus on quality over speed, with the goal of creating the best possible work.
• 💡 AI tools like Saga are praised for their structured approach, mimicking film school and providing better consistency in output.
• 🎥 For storyboarding, AI tools can be helpful, but the process can be complex and time-consuming, requiring additional learning and setup.
• 🎬 AI-generated video tools like Runway Gen-2 and Pika Labs are noted for their capabilities in creating lifelike visuals.
• 🎭 The use of AI in virtual performances and deep fakes is gaining traction, with applications in altering content post-production.
• 🏆 There are no known instances of a full screenplay written by AI being successfully sold in Hollywood, indicating the current limitations of AI in this field.
• 📈 The hype around AI replacing writers has been overblown, and the reality is that AI辅助工具 are more about aiding the creative process rather than replacing human creativity.

Q & A

Can AI currently write a 120-page screenplay?

No, AI is not capable of writing a full 120-page screenplay. According to Russell Palmer, Co-Founder of CyberFilm AI, AI tools like ChatGPT can only write a few pages at a time and struggle with consistency and continuity.

What are the limitations of ChatGPT in writing screenplays?

ChatGPT has limitations such as writing only a few pages at a time, forgetting characters, and becoming inconsistent as it writes more. It also has a limit on the number of questions it can answer before timing out.

What is Russell Palmer's view on the future of AI in screenwriting?

Russell Palmer believes that it will be many years before AI can write a full screenplay and export it in formats like PDF or FDX. He also mentions that AI-generated scripts often require significant editing to match the writer's vision.

What is the term used to describe AI's decline in performance as it writes more content?

The term used to describe AI's decline in performance as it writes more content is 'hallucinations.' This refers to the AI starting off well but becoming increasingly inconsistent and inaccurate as it generates more text.

How does Russell Palmer describe the ideal pace for writing a screenplay using AI?

Palmer suggests that the pace should be fast enough to complete the screenplay but not at the expense of quality. He emphasizes that the goal is to produce the best possible work rather than to write quickly.

What is the role of AI in assisting with character development in screenplays?

AI can help with character development by providing ideas for complementary characters, such as villains or love interests. It can also assist in creating backstories that are not cliché.

What are some of the best AI tools currently available for screenwriters?

Russell Palmer recommends Saga as the best AI tool for screenwriters due to its prompt engineering and structured approach. He also mentions ChatGPT, despite its limitations, as a valuable tool.

How does CyberFilm AI's app help with storyboarding?

CyberFilm AI's app helps with storyboarding by maintaining consistency in character descriptions and settings. It allows users to select shot types, camera angles, and other elements to create detailed storyboards.

What are some of the top AI tools for creating virtual performances in films?

Some top AI tools for creating virtual performances include Runway Gen-2, Pika Labs, Sora, and Metaphysics.ai. These tools can generate realistic scenes and even alter existing footage to change dialogue or expressions.

Has anyone successfully written and sold a screenplay using AI?

According to Russell Palmer, there are no known instances of someone writing an entire screenplay using AI and then successfully selling it in Hollywood. AI is still not capable of producing a complete, sellable script on its own.