AI in Storytelling and Filmmaking

SINGAPORE – The landscape of storytelling and filmmaking in Singapore is undergoing a revolutionary transformation thanks to advancements in artificial intelligence (AI). Local filmmakers, including Chai Yee Wei, are beginning to embrace AI’s groundbreaking capabilities, which promise to make once-daunting creative tasks not only achievable but also more efficient.

Chai Yee Wei, the visionary director behind the Hokkien-language drama Wonderland (2023), finds AI tools incredibly resourceful for managing the complexities of sound production in films. “How do you get a dog to whine and bark just right? With AI, you don’t have to convince a dog!” he points out, envisioning a future in which even animal vocalizations can be perfectly crafted digitally.

AI’s influence isn't limited to sound; it’s also reshaping visual storytelling. In the upcoming science fiction prequel Alien: Romulus (2024), audiences will experience a character reminiscent of the late British actor Ian Holm, thanks to sophisticated AI techniques that seamlessly blend animatronics and computer-generated imagery. This character not only looks like Holm but also uses AI to replicate his voice, paying homage to his iconic role in the original Alien film.

Chai elaborates on AI’s impact, noting how it can alleviate the pressure of the traditional dubbing process, a chore that often conflicts with actors' schedules. “As long as I have an actor’s consent, I can modify their lines after filming or rectify dialogue haunted by background noise,” he states, highlighting how these innovations grant creative professionals newfound flexibility.

Visual effects are also evolving; AI tools can now swiftly separate characters from their backgrounds, drastically cutting the time needed for editing. “What used to take weeks can now be accomplished in a day by one person,” Chai asserts. This shift in productivity reflects a broader trend among Singaporean media creators who are leveraging AI to redefine their workflows.

AI’s Role in Literature

Additionally, local author Pugalenthi Sr recognizes the growing influence of AI in enhancing storytelling. At 62, he aims to adapt traditional narratives for modern audiences by integrating interactive AI experiences, acknowledging that young people today often prioritize digital entertainment over leisurely reading. Sr’s extensive work in horror and folk tales, including titles like Myths and Legends of Singapore (1991), exemplifies how he plans to utilize AI as a tool for contemporary storytelling.

Caution and Quality Control

However, with such promise comes caution. Animation studio Robot Playground Media's head, Ervin Han, emphasizes that rigorous quality control is essential. “If using AI leads to more hours spent fixing errors than it saves, then it defeats its purpose,” he remarks. The studio, known for their acclaimed series Downstairs, is cautiously experimenting with AI for pre-production tasks rather than relying on it for high-quality animated features just yet.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

Legal and ethical considerations surrounding AI adoption are also being scrutinized. At a recent panel during the Singapore Media Festival, Professor Simon Chesterman, a prominent figure in AI governance, warned that the creative industry might need to rethink copyright and employment practices as AI takes on more roles traditionally held by humans.

Industry Support and Community Excitement

In response to the evolving landscape, the Infocomm Media Development Authority of Singapore (IMDA) is facilitating industry support through grants and training initiatives, ensuring that talent is prepared for the challenges and opportunities brought forth by AI.

Moreover, the excitement within the creative community is palpable. Jack Neo, Singapore’s most commercially successful filmmaker, plans to release I Want To Be Boss on January 24, featuring narratives deeply intertwined with AI’s permeation into everyday life. Neo is experimenting with AI for visual storytelling and even song composition within the film.

Conclusion: The Future of Creativity with AI

As the industry progresses, AI technologies are being implemented in various capacities, from sound design at Mocha Chai Laboratories—where voice replicators create realistic animal sounds—to innovative interactive experiences developed in partnership with Amazon Web Services, expanding readership engagement through AI-assisted storytelling.

This proactive approach positions Singapore at the forefront of integrating AI in creative fields, facilitating efficiency while reshaping how artists and audiences interact with stories. As the creative industry continues to adapt, the potential for AI to further break down barriers is just beginning to be explored.

Embrace the AI Revolution: The Future of Creativity Awaits!