Mike Rianda’s first feature film, The Mitchells vs. the Machines, was a success both critically and commercially when it premiered on Netflix in 2021. The film follows a family’s battle against an AI created by a tech company intent on wiping out humans. Since then, Rianda believes the themes of the movie have become even more relevant in real life.
The Animation Guild, which Rianda is a member of, is set to begin negotiations with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers. This negotiation will determine their next contract and address the use of AI in the animation industry. Many animation workers see this as a crucial moment, as major studios are expressing interest in utilizing AI in various aspects of production.
The concern among animation workers is that AI poses a significant threat to their jobs. Companies like Disney and Netflix are already exploring ways to incorporate AI into their workflow, potentially automating tasks that were previously done by human workers. The fear is that this could lead to widespread job loss in the industry.
Despite the lack of concrete data on AI adoption in animation, there is a growing sense of unease among workers. Nora Meek, a storyboard artist and writer, emphasizes the need for strong collective protections to safeguard against the potential impact of AI on their livelihoods.
Jeffrey Katzenberg and Ted Sarandos have made statements suggesting that AI could drastically reduce the number of jobs needed to produce animated content. This has only fueled concerns among animation workers who worry about the future of their industry.
Mike Rianda has been vocal in advocating for protections against AI in animation. He has joined TAG’s organizing committee and has been actively engaging with colleagues to raise awareness about the issue. Rianda believes that studios should not be allowed to replace any artist with AI, as this could lead to a gradual erosion of jobs in the industry.
Recently, a Stand With Animation rally was held in Burbank, drawing hundreds of animation workers who expressed their opposition to AI in the industry. Speakers at the rally, including Rianda, highlighted the importance of preserving jobs in animation and preventing AI from taking over creative roles.
In Rianda’s view, AI can have positive applications, such as addressing climate change and medical research. However, in the hands of corporations, AI could be used to cut costs and eliminate jobs. This is why he is committed to fighting for protections against the misuse of AI in the animation industry.
Overall, the animation industry is facing a pivotal moment as it grapples with the implications of AI on job security. Workers like Mike Rianda are leading the charge to ensure that AI is used responsibly and does not jeopardize the livelihoods of those in the animation community.
