AI-powered documentary tests cinema's boundaries in Venice

A documentary about the rise of fashion brand Diesel, titled "Be Brave," premiered at the Venice Film Festival, marking one of the first AI-assisted entries in mainstream cinema. Directed by Francesco Carrozzini, the film blends genuine interviews, archive footage with AI-generated video, so convincing that viewers may struggle to discern which sequences are real.

Concern over AI's impact on creativity and jobs in the entertainment industry has been a hot topic at Venice, with figures like George Clooney expressing worries about the technology. Despite this, "Be Brave" producer Lorenzo Mieli emphasized the need for regulation and control of AI, while also highlighting the importance of understanding the technology.

Founder Renzo Rosso, who transformed a small denim company into a globally recognized brand, was not interested in making a traditional film about his life or promoting himself. However, he embraced the idea of using AI for the documentary, particularly when he learned it would allow him to bring to life periods of his childhood not captured in existing footage.