Ben Affleck Explains His Approach to Using AI Ethically on New Movie

Key Points:

• Ben Affleck discussed his responsible use of AI in his new film Animals, emphasizing ethical practices such as using proprietary datasets that do not rely on copyrighted or peer-created material.
• Affleck rejects the idea of AI-generated movies created by simple prompts, focusing instead on integrating AI as a subtle post-production tool that respects creative contributions and compensates artists fairly.
• He expressed concerns about tech companies exploiting image and likeness rights without permission, advocating for AI use controlled by filmmakers and guild signatories to protect artists' rights.
• Affleck sold his AI company InterPositive to Netflix for nearly $600 million earlier in 2026 and has been quietly working with AI technology for several years, aiming to enhance filmmaking without replacing human creativity.
• Animals, which Affleck directed, co-wrote, and stars in, premieres in select theaters and on Netflix on October 9, with the story focusing on a mayoral candidate dealing with his son’s kidnapping.