“We did not use AI to make this show,” O’Brien said. Conan O'Brien's comments were clearly a nod to the use of generative AI in The Brutalist, which won three Oscars for Best Actor, Cinematography, and Original Score.
The film sparked controversy last month over its use of AI. In an interview with Red Shark News, film editor Dávid Jancsó revealed that Respeecher, an AI voice generator, was used to adjust the Hungarian dialogue of actors Adrien Brody and Felicity Jones to make it sound more authentic.
The inclusion of AI in the film ignited an online debate, with some suggesting it should have been disqualified from award consideration. Director Brady Corbet responded to the backlash, clarifying that AI was not used to enhance the actors' performances but only to “refine certain vowels and letters for accuracy.”
Similarly, Emilia Pérez, another multiple Oscar winner, faced criticism for using Respeecher. The software was used to expand the voice range of actress Karla Sofía Gascón and blend her singing with French singer Camille, according to re-recording mixer Cyril Holtz in a video interview.
The growing role of AI in Hollywood has sparked considerable debate, particularly regarding concerns over job displacement. As a result, AI became a central issue for the Screen Actors Guild and the Writers Guild of America during their strikes against major production studios in 2023.
With AI becoming more integrated into filmmaking, the Motion Picture Academy now offers an option for filmmakers to disclose AI use. However, following the controversy surrounding The Brutalist, the Academy is reportedly considering making AI disclosure mandatory in future submissions.