Natasha Lyonne Set to Revolutionize Hollywood with Groundbreaking AI-Infused Sci-Fi Film

Upcoming Film “Uncanny Valley” Will Utilize Generative AI with Fully Licensed Data.

Natasha Lyonne, known for her roles in Poker Face and Russian Doll, is set to direct and star in the sci-fi film Uncanny Valley, marking a pioneering effort to merge human creativity with generative AI.

The script is co-written with Brit Marling, known for The OA, and is produced by AI-focused studio Asteria. The film will feature AI-generated visuals created using an “ethical” AI model called Marey.

Major Announcement

This marks one of the first significant Hollywood projects to integrate generative AI into its creative process rather than just in a supporting role. Its emergence comes amidst ongoing debates within the entertainment industry regarding AI’s effect on artists’ rights and creative authenticity.

Uncanny Valley tells the story of a teenage girl whose life spirals out of control after she becomes addicted to a sensational AR video game. The film will blend live-action sequences with AI-generated virtual landscapes, partly designed by technology pioneer Jaron Lanier, a notable advocate for responsible AI practices.

The visuals will be produced using Marey, a generative AI developed by Moonvalley, and is touted as one of the first to be trained exclusively on copyright-cleared, licensed materials. Asteria, co-founded by Lyonne and filmmaker Bryn Mooser, focuses on ethical sourcing and creative ownership, contrasting sharply with models like those from OpenAI.

Lyonne’s Perspective

She describes the film as a mix of The Matrix and Columbo, highlighting that the creative process has been “radically expansive.”

According to her, “AI can facilitate more ambitious visions on screen, but we must carefully confront its implications regarding artists’ rights.”

Wider Implications

Given that the use of AI has already sparked significant debate during last year’s Hollywood strikes, with over 400 artists expressing concerns about copyright issues with OpenAI and Google, Uncanny Valley arrives at a pivotal time. Its commitment to “clean AI” could determine whether technology can be harnessed without displacing or taking advantage of creators.

While no release date or distribution platform has been established, with Lyonne directing and starring alongside co-writer Marling, <span style