📣 In this issue:
DC pulls AI Superman, Disney and AI, AI film premiere cancelled, The Day the World Prayed, Alien Worlds, Monster Camp, Shinjuku illustrations.
📰 News-To-Know
1
DC Pulls AI Superman
DC Comics has decided to pull variant covers by artist Francesco Mattina after accusations surfaced that he used AI-generated art for a Superman cover. Adi Granov, a well-known comic book artist, publicly accused Mattina of using generative AI, pointing out errors like a misplaced Superman symbol, which Granov argues a human artist would not make. This incident has reignited longstanding accusations against Mattina for allegedly plagiarizing other artists’ work through “swiping” or copying elements from existing art .
This controversy is part of a broader concern within the comic book industry about the use of AI in art creation. Granov and other industry professionals have criticized the reliance on AI, arguing it undermines the efforts of human artists and damages the integrity of the art. DC Comics, which had previously faced similar issues with other artists, responded by launching an investigation and subsequently replacing the affected covers.
2
Disney and AI
Inside the Magic discusses the cautious approach Disney is taking towards the integration of AI in their animation processes. The viral AI video in question has sparked discussions about the future of animation at Disney and the broader industry. Disney’s executive producer Peter Del Vocho emphasized that while AI can be a helpful tool to enhance artists’ work, it is not seen as a replacement for human creativity. This cautious stance aligns with industry-wide concerns about job displacement and the potential loss of artistic uniqueness due to AI  .
Jeffrey Katzenberg, former chairman of Walt Disney Studios, has noted that AI could drastically reduce production costs and time, predicting that future animated films could be made with a fraction of the workforce currently required. He believes AI will serve as a new creative tool, akin to the introduction of digital technology in the past, but it will also necessitate new forms of creativity and job roles within the industry.
In the broader animation industry, AI is being utilized in various capacities, such as automating repetitive tasks, generating backgrounds, and assisting in character animation. Tools like OpenAI’s DALL-E, NVIDIA’s GANs, and Adobe Sensei are prominent examples that allow animators to experiment with new visual concepts and streamline production processes. However, the integration of AI has raised ethical concerns, particularly regarding intellectual property, bias in AI-generated content, and the need to maintain the human touch in animation.
Despite these concerns, the potential for AI to revolutionize animation by enhancing efficiency and expanding creative possibilities is significant. Disney, like many other studios, is navigating these changes carefully to balance innovation with the preservation of artistic integrity.
See the trailer for Monster Camp & the curse of CandyCrest below (ICYMI).
3
AI Film Premiere Canceled
The premiere of “The Last Screenwriter,” a film with an entirely AI-generated script, was canceled due to a flood of complaints from the public. Director Peter Luisi expressed surprise at the backlash, noting that the film was misunderstood and intended to explore the “man versus machine” trope.
Despite his explanations, the overwhelming concern about replacing human writers with AI led to the screening’s cancellation. It appears people still prefer their movies crafted by actual humans rather than a bot with questionable storytelling skills.
👀 Watch List
The Day the World Prayed
Alien Worlds
⏳ ICYMI
Monster Camp & the curse of CandyCrest
🎨 Inspiration
Shinjuku Illustrations
Japanese Shinjuku illustrations capture the vibrant and bustling essence of Shinjuku, one of Tokyo’s most famous districts. These illustrations often depict the area’s iconic landmarks, neon-lit streets, and the energetic atmosphere that characterizes this part of the city. The illustrations are rich in detail, showcasing the high-rise buildings, busy crosswalks, and the throngs of people that populate Shinjuku at all hours. Artists focus on the interplay of light and shadow, particularly the glow of neon signs against the darkened sky, reflecting the district’s reputation for nightlife and entertainment.
The illustrations also highlight the blend of modernity and tradition found in Shinjuku. While the skyscrapers and modern architecture dominate the skyline, elements of traditional Japanese culture, such as temples and shrines, are subtly incorporated into the scenes. This juxtaposition underscores the unique charm of Shinjuku, where the old coexists with the new.
In addition to architectural features, Shinjuku illustrations often include elements of daily life, capturing scenes of people going about their business, street vendors, and the myriad of shops and restaurants that line the streets. These human elements add a dynamic quality to the illustrations, making them feel alive and bustling.
The color palettes used in Shinjuku illustrations are typically vibrant and bold, reflecting the lively atmosphere of the area. Neon colors, especially blues, reds, and pinks, are prevalent, emphasizing the nightlife. In contrast, daytime scenes might use softer, more natural tones to depict the area’s activity under sunlight.
Japanese Shinjuku illustrations are a celebration of the district’s energy, diversity, and unique blend of old and new. They offer a visually engaging representation of one of Tokyo’s most dynamic areas, capturing its spirit through detailed and vibrant artwork.
Midjourney Prompt
[SUBJECT], Japanese Shinjuku illustration, --ar x:y
/settings: Version 6 and Stylize Med
What Next?
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