Ai in the creative space: a filmmaker’s honest take | Ron Newcomb

I want to speak with both caution and clarity. The genie is out of the bottle—and there’s no putting it back. Artificial Intelligence is here, and while we may not all agree on how we got here, the reality is… we’re already deep in it. Yes, I believe artists should be acknowledged and compensated for the work that helped train these models. 100%. But I’m not in the room where those decisions are being made. So the real question becomes: What now? Let’s be honest—we’ve already been using AI in many forms for years. It’s the rise of generative AI that’s sparked new discomfort, and rightly so. I have close friends—brilliant creatives—feeling the sting of rapid change. Just glance at LinkedIn and you’ll see far too many talented individuals actively seeking work. But here’s the tough truth: the creative industry isn’t driving this revolution—technology is. If we were, maybe we could hit pause. But we’re not. So screaming into the wind won’t slow it down. Instead, I choose to lean in—with discernment. There are responsible, exciting, and even empowering ways to use AI in the creative space. And as a storyteller, a builder, and someone who believes in innovation—I want a front row seat to see what’s possible. Let’s keep the conversation honest. Let’s keep it human. And above all, let’s walk forward—together.