Paul Schrader to use AI-generated actors for new film

Director and screenwriter Paul Schrader is planning to use generative artificial intelligence to create entirely synthetic human actors for his upcoming film, ‘Three Guns at Dawn’. The project, a film noir set in South Central Los Angeles, follows the lives of three brothers: a corrupt police officer, a drug dealer, and a serial killer.

Schrader indicated that the decision to use AI-generated ‘human prototypes’ follows difficulties in casting Black actors for the roles. He noted that potential performers were hesitant to take on the parts because the script lacks clearly positive Black characters. Rather than revising the screenplay or seeking alternative casting, Schrader has opted to use AI to replace traditional actors entirely.

Schrader has expressed views on the inevitability of this technology, suggesting that the film industry may not be able to resist the development of AI indefinitely. He also mentioned intentions to use AI to recreate psychedelic experiences within his work.