AI movies make leap from short clips to big screen

Artificial intelligence (AI) technology is making its way from short online videos to feature-length films, as a fully generated movie prepares to hit local theaters. This shift comes as industry experts say the cinema world is entering a transition phase where AI tools are rapidly forcing moviemakers to figure out how and where to utilize the technology. Amid this progress, concerns over creator rights have ignited fierce debate throughout the industry.

A recent example of AI-generated cinema is "Raphael," a science fiction film crafted entirely with generative AI. The movie is set to open on November 25 and is co-directed by Yang Ik-june, Moon Shin-woo, and Jung Joo-won. Produced by Mateo AI Studio and MBC C&I AI Content Lab, "Raphael" tells the story of Alexey, an android weapon modeled after a dictator, who discovers his humanity after meeting an unregistered child and the last human bride.

Set in a post-apocalyptic future, "Raphael" showcases the use of generative AI to create characters, backgrounds, and awe-inspiring war scenes without traditional filmmaking methods. This case demonstrates that while technical novelty can be exciting, it alone does not guarantee box office success.