Avengers Director Joe Russo Says AI Was Used for Voice Modulation in Netflix Film The Electric State, Insists 'AI Is Best Suited Towards Creativity'

The Russo brothers' new Netflix film, The Electric State, has generated significant buzz since its release, sparking considerable discussion about its use of AI, particularly in voice modulation. Joe Russo, director of Avengers: Infinity War and Avengers: Endgame, defended this choice, stating it was a relatively simple technique, accessible even to those with minimal experience. He emphasized the technology's evolving nature, acknowledging its current limitations while highlighting its creative potential. Russo believes AI's "hallucinations," while currently hindering mission-critical applications, are uniquely suited to creative endeavors.

This perspective contrasts with the views of many artists who see AI as antithetical to creativity. However, some studios, including Netflix, appear enthusiastic about AI's future role in filmmaking. Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos previously asserted that audiences are unconcerned about AI's use in content creation, arguing that it enhances storytelling rather than simply reducing costs. He drew a parallel to the evolution of animation, highlighting that technological advancements led to both improved quality and increased employment opportunities.

This optimistic view isn't universally shared. Recently, Marvel Studios denied using AI in creating teaser posters for The Fantastic Four: First Steps, despite an apparent anomaly in one image.

The Electric State, directed by Anthony and Joe Russo and adapted from Simon Stalenhag's novel, boasts a star-studded cast including Millie Bobby Brown, Chris Pratt, Ke Huy Quan, Woody Harrelson, Jason Alexander, Anthony Mackie, Jenny Slate, Giancarlo Esposito, Brian Cox, and Stanley Tucci. However, the film received a less-than-stellar 4/10 rating from IGN, criticized as a costly disappointment.

The Russo brothers are slated to direct the next two installments in the Avengers franchise: Avengers: Doomsday (2026) and Avengers: Secret Wars (2027).