Hollywood’s Ethical Quandary: AI-Generated Voices in Documentaries
Introduction
The entertainment industry’s embrace of artificial intelligence (AI) has sparked controversies, particularly regarding its use in modulating voices. The latest ethical dilemma arose with Netflix’s decision to recreate the voice of murdered travel vlogger Gabby Petito in their documentary "American Murder: Gabby Petito."
The Gabby Petito Case and Netflix’s Documentary
In 2021, the disappearance and subsequent murder of Gabby Petito gripped the nation. Netflix’s documentary seeks to recount the chilling events through a three-part docu-series. However, a notable aspect of the production is the decision to utilize an AI program to re-create Petito’s voice and have her read her own journal entries.
Public Outrage and Ethical Concerns
The filmmakers’ decision has sparked widespread backlash on social media, with critics expressing disgust and discomfort with the use of AI in this context. Many argue that it is disrespectful and even exploitative to use technology to simulate the voice of a deceased individual, especially in a case involving such a tragic loss of life.
Filmmakers’ Defense and Ethical Considerations
The producers of "American Murder" defended their decision, stating that they obtained permission from Petito’s family and sought to represent her words faithfully. They see AI as a means to re-animate the deceased and allow her to narrate her own story. However, the unique circumstances of Petito’s case raise concerns about the propriety of using auto-generated voice-overs, particularly when the subject is a murdered young woman.
Historical Precedents and the Uncanny Valley
While voice actors have traditionally narrated the written words of historical figures in documentaries, the use of AI to simulate a specific person’s voice presents a nuanced ethical concern. The uncanny valley effect, which refers to the discomfort experienced when something appears almost but not quite human, amplifies the creepiness factor in the case of Petito, whose voice was digitally recreated.
AI in Movies: Disclosure Rules and Potential Controversies
The recent controversies surrounding the use of AI in documentaries have prompted the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences to consider instituting new disclosure rules. These rules would require filmmakers to reveal when AI is used to alter or simulate voices in their projects. Such regulations aim to mitigate future controversies and foster transparency in the filmmaking process.
Conclusion
The ethical implications of using AI to modulate voices in documentaries remain a subject of debate. While some argue that it allows for more authentic storytelling, others see it as a violation of the deceased’s dignity and a potentially exploitative practice. As AI technology continues to advance, the entertainment industry must grapple with these ethical questions and establish clear guidelines for its responsible use.
