Inside Google's plan to have Hollywood make AI look less doomsday

Core Perspective - Google aims to reshape the cultural narrative around artificial intelligence (AI) by funding short films that depict AI in a more positive light, moving away from the traditional dystopian portrayals seen in films like "The Terminator" and "Ex Machina" [2][9]. Group 1: Google Initiative - The initiative, named "AI on Screen," is a collaboration with Range Media Partners, focusing on producing short films that explore the intersection of humanity and technology [3][8]. - Two short films have been approved: "Sweetwater," featuring a hologram of a deceased celebrity mother, and "Lucid," which follows a couple using a device to share dreams [4][9]. - Google has not disclosed the financial investment in these films but intends to fund more projects in the future [9]. Group 2: Public Perception and Cultural Impact - A survey indicated that 56% of Americans view AI as having equal amounts of harm and good, while 31% believe it does more harm than good, highlighting the need for a shift in AI's cultural representation [5]. - Google’s effort is seen as a way to potentially alter public perceptions of AI, which are currently mixed and often negative [5][12]. - The initiative comes amid concerns in Hollywood regarding AI's impact on jobs and intellectual property, as actors and writers fear misuse of their likenesses and works [11][12]. Group 3: Industry Context - The AI sector is becoming increasingly competitive, with major players like OpenAI, Anthropic, Apple, and Meta also involved in shaping AI narratives [7]. - Google is not promoting its products through these films, focusing instead on storytelling that reflects human experiences with technology [8][9]. - Other companies, like Anthropic, are also exploring ways to make AI more approachable through public exhibits and collaborations with filmmakers [16].