In his latest film Here, director Robert Zemeckis explores uncharted territory yet again by embracing cutting-edge AI technology to de-age his actors. Tom Hanks and Robin Wright, the stars of the show, appear across multiple generations, blending traditional makeup effects with advanced digital techniques.
Zemeckis Continues to Innovate
Zemeckis is no stranger to pushing technological boundaries in cinema. From Who Framed Roger Rabbit? to The Polar Express, he’s consistently used innovative techniques. “I’ve always been attracted to technology that helps me to tell a story,” Zemeckis mentioned while discussing his use of AI tools for de-aging.
Seamless Transformation of Actors
The film employs Metaphysic’s AI tools to achieve eerily realistic transformations. As Hanks portrays Richard through various stages of life, the technology allows him to transition from a young man in the 1960s to his present-day self at 67, and even into his late 80s. Zemeckis emphasized the necessity of these tools, saying that without them, “the film simply wouldn’t work.”
A Revolutionary Filmmaking Approach
Zemeckis’ screenplay keeps the camera at a fixed point throughout the film’s run. This unique approach helps highlight the passage of time directly in front of the camera lens while AI-generated visuals ensure convincing authenticity. The fixed perspective—the living room—remains constant as everything else evolves around it.
The Role of Metaphysic Live Technology
Using a generative AI tool called Metaphysic Live, real-time hyper-realistic face swaps occur during filming. Robin Wright, who plays Margaret, is seen as she appeared using footage from when she was 19 years old during this technologically enhanced shoot.
An Industry Changing Standard?
Initial reactions from audiences have been mixed, ranging from awe at the seamless past-to-present transitions to unease during moments when the effects lean towards the uncanny valley. Nonetheless, it opens up fresh avenues for storytelling in modern cinema.
A Balanced Perspective on De-Aging Tech
Hanks himself acknowledged that while AI-generated performances may not completely match live acting’s authenticity, they present exciting prospects for filmmakers. This evolving conversation highlights ethical considerations about intellectual property and actors’ rights—a pertinent issue with these advancing technologies.
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