Why the AI Studio Ghibli Lord of the Rings trailer has me worried — is ChatGPT an enemy to anime?

Summary

This video discusses the rise of AI-generated content, particularly its ability to replicate Studio Ghibli’s iconic animation style, and the potential threat it poses to the anime industry. While some defend AI-generated images, the script highlights concerns about the devaluation of creativity, the future of animators, and the unethical working conditions in anime studios. With the possibility of AI replacing human animators, the video critiques how AI-generated art could lead to a collapse of traditional anime production and the loss of genuine artistic value in favor of cheaper, faster creations.

Takeaways

• 😀 AI's ability to generate Studio Ghibli-style images has sparked a viral trend, leading to widespread use of AI for memes and reimaginings of popular media.
• 😀 While some argue that AI-generated images are harmless since they are still images, there is concern about the potential impact of AI on the anime industry in the long term.
• 😀 AI-generated imitations of Ghibli animation have already started emerging, and these imitations, though imperfect, are growing more convincing and could pose a threat to traditional animation.
• 😀 The viral 'Ghibli-style Lord of the Rings' trailer is a prime example of AI's potential to mimic animation styles, though it was created quickly with notable imperfections.
• 😀 If AI had more time and resources, it could theoretically produce feature-length films resembling Ghibli animation with minimal effort and cost compared to traditional methods.
• 😀 The cost to create AI-generated content is relatively low, with the 'Ghibli-style Lord of the Rings' trailer costing only $250, a fraction of what a full animation project would cost in traditional studios.
• 😀 The anime industry already suffers from underpaid and overworked animators, making it vulnerable to AI replacing human workers as a more cost-effective solution.
• 😀 Major studios, like MAPPA, have been criticized for poor treatment of their staff, leading to declines in animation quality, which raises questions about the industry's future.
• 😀 AI could become a way to bypass the industry's long-standing problems with animator training and poor working conditions, with studios possibly choosing AI over human labor as costs rise.
• 😀 The veteran animator Terumi Nishii warned that the departure of experienced animators like Hisashi Kagawa could mark the end of an era, and the current system is unsustainable without significant change.
• 😀 Studio Ghibli's Hayao Miyazaki has strongly criticized the use of AI in animation, arguing that it threatens creativity and reduces art to mere imitation, which would diminish the value of true artistry.

Q & A

What is the main concern regarding the use of AI to create Ghibli-inspired images?

The main concern is that AI-generated images could lead to the replacement of human animators, thereby devaluing the creative process and threatening the future of traditional animation, especially in the anime industry.

Why is the 'What if Studio Ghibli directed Lord of the Rings' video controversial?

The video is controversial because it uses AI to create a Ghibli-style trailer for Lord of the Rings, which many consider to be an imperfect imitation. Despite this, it showcases the potential of AI to replicate animation styles, sparking concern about the future of animation.

How does the creator of the Ghibli-style Lord of the Rings trailer defend its quality?

The creator defends the trailer's quality by explaining that the video was made in just 9 hours, citing the lack of time as the reason for the visible imperfections, such as inconsistent character designs and animation quality.

What is the fear surrounding AI's potential in the anime industry?

The fear is that AI could eventually replace human animators, allowing studios to produce anime-like content quickly and cheaply, which could lead to job losses, exploitation of AI, and a decline in the quality and creativity of the industry.

How much did the Ghibli-style Lord of the Rings trailer cost to make, and why is this significant?

The trailer cost $250 in Kling credits, which is a relatively small amount for an anime studio. This cost is significant because it demonstrates how AI could drastically reduce production costs in the anime industry.

What are the current challenges facing animators in the anime industry?

Animators in the anime industry are often overworked and underpaid. Studios like MAPPA have been criticized for poor working conditions, with animators facing excessive hours and unrealistic expectations, leading to a decline in animation quality over time.

What scenario does the script suggest is more likely for the future of anime studios?

The script suggests that it is more likely for anime studios to replace human animators with AI rather than suddenly adopting more ethical practices in the face of pressure regarding pay and working conditions.

Why does Terumi Nishii's comment about Hisashi Kagawa retiring cause concern for the future of anime?

Nishii's comment raises concern because Kagawa is part of a generation of animators who have trained the younger workforce. As he and others retire, the lack of proper training systems for new animators could leave the industry vulnerable, making it easier for AI to replace traditional animation.

What is the risk if anime studios prioritize AI over human animators?

If anime studios prioritize AI over human animators, it could lead to the 'death' of creativity in the industry, as AI-generated works would lack the personal touch and dedication that human animators bring to their craft.

What was Hayao Miyazaki's stance on AI-generated animation, and how does this contrast with the AI trends?

Hayao Miyazaki strongly opposed AI-generated animation, calling it an 'insult to life itself.' His stance contrasts with the growing trend of using AI to mimic artistic styles, as he believes that AI-generated art lacks the soul and authenticity of human-created works.