OpenAI, valued at $157 billion and known for its AI model ChatGPT, introduced its new AI tool Sora in early 2024 to compete with emerging tech startups that generate realistic video clips from text prompts.
Since its launch, OpenAI has engaged in discussions with major film studios, including Walt Disney Co., Comcast's Universal Pictures, and Warner Bros. Discovery, to explore the creative and commercial potential of Sora.
Although these talks are aimed at leveraging Sora's capabilities, no formal agreements have been established yet due to the studios' hesitance.
Concerns over data usage and labor union relations have contributed to the studios' reluctance to finalize any deals.
The hesitance is further fueled by worries regarding AI's impact on jobs, which were central to the Hollywood labor strikes of 2023, where screenwriters and actors pushed for stricter regulations on tech companies.
In light of these concerns, screenwriters and actors have called for stricter oversight on technology firms to prevent unauthorized use of their work.
OpenAI is taking a cautious approach, emphasizing the importance of feedback from the film industry before rushing into commercial partnerships.
Brad Lightcap, OpenAI's COO, highlighted the need to carefully develop partnerships and suggested that it may be premature to enter into commercial agreements.
Despite the hesitance, some filmmakers have expressed interest in experimenting with Sora as a creative tool, indicating potential for future collaboration.
OpenAI has even proposed creating customized versions of Sora tailored for specific studios to enhance their projects.
While newspaper publishers and record labels have actively engaged in licensing and legal actions regarding AI, the movie industry has been slower to embrace its commercial potential.
This slower pace contrasts sharply with the more rapid financial actions taken by the music and publishing industries regarding artificial intelligence.
