Film and TV companies enforce 'strict AI controls' — ScreenSkills UK report

Certain UK film and television industry groups are implementing "tougher internal controls" over artificial intelligence (AI), based on a fresh report from the training organisation ScreenSkills.

The report, which analysed skill shortages in the industry and anticipated potential job cuts soon, highlighted AI's integration into film and television.

According to individuals interviewed for the report, "certain organizations" within the industry are instating "rigorous internal policies" on AI, "particularly concerning copyright risks, resulting in a restricted application."

The industry's stance on generative AI is described as "careful," with the report also highlighting "worries about copyright and accuracy."

"AI adoption rates differ significantly," the report observed. "Some depend on AI daily for improved back-office effectiveness, employing it for coding assistance, automating spreadsheets, overseeing social media, or generating initial concepts, casting options, or pitch materials. AI was largely viewed as beneficial for tasks that consume time or are repetitive, yet potentially problematic for roles requiring precise accuracy, creative intention, or legal certainty."

The report included remarks from industry professionals, including a high-end TV worker who forecast: "AI will eventually replace almost an entire department over time."

AI is a highly debated topic currently, with its benefits and drawbacks discussed over the years.

As expected, the report focused on certain areas that AI cannot replace, such as "interpersonal abilities."

In the post-production and VFX area, likely the most influenced by AI, "interpersonal abilities were most frequently cited when respondents were asked which skills have gained importance in the department they work in due to advancing technologies," the report mentioned.

"Perceptions of AI varied more widely with early adopters—such as those in animation, post-production, and visual effects (VFX)—having a clearer understanding of how it might influence their workforces and a larger proportion being more confident it could lead to job losses."

Named “Powering Production: Identifying skill needs in the UK’s screen industry,” the study revealed that "mid-level and senior team members were mostly seen as needing skill enhancements as their roles transition from task execution to leadership."

It stated, “around half of those surveyed foresee some alterations to work methods, some anticipated job cuts, and others were unsure.”

Nearly 64% of employers reported difficulty finding applicants for positions over the past year, with the issue being particularly severe in film, where the figure reached 71%.