Morgan Neville, the director of the documentary “Roadrunner” about Anthony Bourdain, received backlash for using generative AI to replicate Bourdain’s voice in the film. Neville initially saw this as a creative way to incorporate Bourdain’s voice, but many viewers criticized the use of AI, believing that fabricated words were being put into Bourdain’s mouth.
In a recent interview with Wired, Neville explained that despite his original intentions, the response to the AI-generated voice was overwhelmingly negative. He mentioned that other documentary projects faced similar criticism and either changed their approach or added disclaimers to clarify their use of AI technology.
As a result of the backlash, Neville made a conscious decision to avoid using AI in his subsequent projects. In his latest documentary, “Piece by Piece,” which delves into musician Pharrell’s life using Legos, Neville made sure to stay away from AI-generated content. He specifically mentioned that they constructed the word “Pharrell” using syllables that Pharrell had actually spoken, with permission from his widow.
Neville’s decision to refrain from using AI reflects a growing concern in the film industry about the ethical implications of artificially replicating someone’s voice or likeness. By choosing not to rely on AI technology, Neville is prioritizing authenticity and transparency in his storytelling.
The controversy surrounding the use of AI in “Roadrunner” has sparked a broader conversation about the boundaries of documentary filmmaking and the importance of accurately representing real individuals on screen. As technology continues to advance, filmmakers like Neville are faced with new ethical dilemmas that require careful consideration and thoughtful decision-making.
Moving forward, Neville’s commitment to avoiding AI in his work serves as a reminder of the responsibility that filmmakers have to uphold the integrity of their subjects and narratives. By taking a deliberate stance against AI, Neville is setting a precedent for ethical documentary practices that prioritize respect for the individuals whose stories are being told.
