HONG KONG — The message from industry executives at this year’s Filmart was clear: artificial intelligence is a tool for artists, not their successor. “My goal isn’t to replace artists with AI, but to use it to create content,” stated Lee Sangwook, Head of the AI Content Lab at MBC C&I, during a prominent panel discussion.

The session, featuring leaders from Midjourney China Lab, Huace Film & TV, Google Hong Kong, and AI firm MiniMax, reframed the often-anxious dialogue around the technology. Panelists argued that apprehension stems from creative uncertainty, not from the machines themselves. “Creation is the total package of an artist’s emotions, which AI cannot replace,” said Midjourney China’s COO, Yuhang Cheng. She described AI as a visualization engine that can rapidly execute an artist’s mental image, freeing them to focus on design and conceptual refinement.

The evidence was on display at the market. MBC C&I presented ‘Raphael,’ an 80-minute feature produced entirely with AI tools, signaling a shift in production viability. Google’s Ricky Lau emphasized a hybrid future, urging filmmakers to master a broad suite of AI applications. “Production houses are already mixing technologies,” he noted, advising professionals to adapt their working methods fundamentally.

Looking ahead, the tone was optimistic. Huace CEO Fu Binxing predicted that within a few years, AI will democratize filmmaking to an unprecedented degree. “Even an elementary student,” he suggested, “will be able to create a good piece of work.” As Filmart concludes, the industry’s challenge appears to be one of adaptation, embracing AI as a powerful new collaborator in the creative process.

Source: Deadline