Russo Brothers Discuss the Use of AI in The Electric State
How the Russo Brothers Utilized A.I. in The Electric State
The Russo Brothers, renowned for their work on blockbuster films like Avengers: Endgame, have shared insights about the use of artificial intelligence (A.I.) in their new science fiction movie The Electric State. This adventure film is set in a dystopian future following a catastrophic war between humanity and robots.
Plot Overview
In The Electric State, Millie Bobby Brown stars as Michelle, a young girl scavenging a desolate wasteland in search of her brother. The film is based on Simon Stålenhag’s acclaimed 2018 graphic novel, which presents a unique retro-futuristic landscape. Michelle teams up with a former soldier, Keats, played by Chris Pratt, as they navigate their way through the remnants of a shattered world, including encounters with a sentient robot.
A.I. for Vocal Modulation
The Russo Brothers talked about how they incorporated A.I. technologies into their production, especially for modifying voices. In an interview with The Times, Joe Russo described the use of A.I. in a manner that even children could grasp, referencing its potential widespread application in film. He noted, “There’s a lot of finger-pointing and hyperbole because people are afraid. They don’t understand. But ultimately you’ll see A.I. used more significantly.” He emphasizes that A.I. could be a potent tool for creativity rather than just a risk to traditional filmmaking.
Joe also pointed out that the current state of A.I. is evolving, marking it as “generative” but still prone to errors or "hallucinations." This unpredictability explains why A.I. has not yet revolutionized fields like autonomous vehicles or surgical procedures. He believes that A.I. is best suited for creative endeavors at this stage, which is an exciting prospect for filmmakers.
Background on The Electric State
The Electric State is inspired by Simon Stålenhag’s graphic novel, which was well-received when it was published. NPR named it one of their Books of the Year in 2018, highlighting it as a significant piece of literature. The film rights for the adaptation were acquired by the Russo Brothers in 2017, showcasing their early interest in the project even before the novel was completed.
The screenplay for the film was penned by Christopher Markus and Stephen McFeely, who previously collaborated with the Russo Brothers on the Avengers films. They aim to create a narrative that appeals to a global audience, something Anthony Russo emphasized during discussions about the project.
Key Facts About the Graphic Novel
- The Electric State was celebrated for its storytelling and visuals upon its release.
- It explores themes of familial bonds against a backdrop of technological advancement and societal collapse.
- The narrative reflects on the implications of A.I. and robotics in human life, making it a timely subject in today’s context.
The Star-Studded Cast of The Electric State
The film features an impressive line-up of actors, adding to its appeal. Here is the main cast:
| Actor | Role |
|---|---|
| Millie Bobby Brown | Michelle Greene |
| Chris Pratt | John D. Keats |
| Stanley Tucci | Ethan Skate |
| Jason Alexander | Ted Finister |
| Brian Cox | Popfly |
| Rob Gronkowski | Blitz |
This diverse cast serves to bring the complex characters and storyline to life. The combination of well-known talent alongside innovative storytelling techniques is a recipe for success in contemporary cinema.
Reception and Future Projects
Currently, The Electric State is available for streaming on Netflix. While critics have given it a mixed reception, with a low score on Rotten Tomatoes, audiences seem to resonate more positively with the film, reflected in a higher viewer approval rating.
Looking forward, Joe Russo indicated that the insights gained from developing The Electric State would influence their work on upcoming Avengers films. Their commitment to storytelling and innovation continues to shape their cinematic ventures, making them key figures in modern filmmaking.
