Los Angeles, California — A new feature film that integrates artificial intelligence and immersive video game elements is set to redefine storytelling in cinema. Pioneering tech innovator Jaron Lanier has partnered with actress-director Natasha Lyonne and writer-producer Brit Marling for the project, titled “Uncanny Valley.”
The film, backed by Asteria, an AI-centric studio co-founded by Lyonne and filmmaker Bryn Mooser, will explore the life of a teenage girl who navigates the complexities of a massively popular augmented reality game. This narrative promises a unique blend of live action and game components, crafted by a collaborative team that includes Lanier, Lyonne, and Marling.
At the core of this film is an advanced AI model, known as “Marey,” developed by Asteria partner Moonvalley. Unlike other AI platforms that often rely on non-verified data, Marey uses only copyright-cleared information, establishing a new standard for ethical AI in storytelling.
An Asteria representative expressed optimism about the project, stating it aims to merge traditional narrative techniques with groundbreaking AI technologies to create an entirely new cinematic experience. Whether this film will premiere in theaters, on streaming services, or through a more innovative platform remains to be determined.
Historically, artificial intelligence has played a limited role in the filmmaking process, often relegated to post-production tasks rather than serving as a core element of the narrative. The involvement of top-tier talent like Lyonne and Marling marks a significant shift in this trend.
Since launching Asteria, Lyonne has explored various facets of large language models, positioning herself at the forefront of emerging storytelling methods. “Uncanny Valley” marks her directorial debut, pushing creative boundaries further following her acclaimed work on the series “Poker Face.”
This film represents more than just an independent project; it has the potential to test the waters concerning the role of generative AI in the arts. Will it dilute artistic content or expand creative horizons? Critics remain divided as the film enters pre-production.
Mooser believes that genuine storytelling, driven by artists rather than tech experts, can lead to groundbreaking advancements. He emphasized the importance of placing artists at the forefront of technology to foster unexpected innovations in the film industry.
In her reflections on the project, Lyonne described the collaboration with Marling as a blend of whimsical creativity reminiscent of an imaginative journey, underscoring the rich dialogue and artistic nuance that fuel their work. She hailed Lanier as an influential thinker with a profound understanding of technology and its impact on humanity.
Lanier’s career spans decades, beginning with his early work at Atari and a pivotal role in the development of virtual reality. Throughout his career, he has maintained a critical stance toward the implications of Big Tech on society. He advocates for a human-centered approach to technology, pushing for innovations that enhance rather than constrain human experience.
In a recent statement, Lanier posited that “Uncanny Valley” encapsulates a narrative about technology fundamentally rooted in human connection. By intertwining advanced AI with rich storytelling, the film aspires to explore how various generations interact across technological landscapes while embracing their individual and shared experiences.