‘The Wizard of Oz at Sphere’ to Innovate 1939 Classic with AI
The Wizard of Oz to Premiere at the Las Vegas Sphere
In an exciting development for fans of classic cinema, the iconic film "The Wizard of Oz" will make its way to the Las Vegas Sphere, a cutting-edge venue known for its innovative technology. Following the announcement last week, the Sphere team, collaborating with Warner Bros. Discovery, Google Cloud, and the creative tech firm Magnopus, unveiled plans to utilize generative artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced computing systems to create a groundbreaking multisensory experience. This initiative aims to embody the creative spirit of the 1939 film while bringing it into the modern era.
Enhancing a Classic Film
The reimagined version of "The Wizard of Oz at Sphere," set to debut on August 28, incorporates Google Cloud’s AI technology to upscale the original film. The advanced infrastructure provided by Google Cloud will handle extensive data processing and rendering, requirements essential for the enormous visual demands of the project. Notably, this partnership signifies the beginning of a broader collaboration between Sphere Entertainment and Google Cloud focused on AI advancements.
Historical Context of the Original Film
Originally released in 1939 by Warner Bros., "The Wizard of Oz" was filmed using a sophisticated three-strip Technicolor camera—a significant technological milestone of its time. The new digital adaptation will be showcased on the Sphere’s expansive 160,000-square-foot, wraparound LED display, which features an impressive resolution of 16K by 16K, significantly enhancing the visual experience.
Cutting-Edge Technology in Use
To elevate the classic film, Google Cloud, along with its AI division Google DeepMind, will implement models like Gemini, Veo 2, and Imagen 3. These tools will help enhance the original film’s resolution and expand the backgrounds to fully occupy the massive screen. Additionally, the technology will digitally recreate characters who did not appear in the original scenes, allowing for a richer narrative and visual environment. It’s noteworthy that approximately 1.2 petabytes of data have already been processed in preparation for this remarkable project.
Collaborating with Artists
In this endeavor, the Sphere has also partnered with Magnopus, a Los Angeles-based studio founded by acclaimed visual effects artists Ben Grossman and Alex Henning, who are known for their work on the film "Hugo." Their expertise ensures that the reimagining of "The Wizard of Oz" remains true to its roots while embracing contemporary technological advancements.
Voices Behind the Project
Jim Dolan, executive chairman and CEO of Sphere Entertainment, expressed the significant role generative AI plays in this project, stating that the collaboration with Google allows them to achieve extraordinary results. He emphasized the importance of having a partner capable of pushing creative and technological boundaries, which Google uniquely fulfills.
Similarly, Thomas Kurian, CEO of Google Cloud, highlighted the partnership with Sphere as an excellent example of using generative AI to create novel experiences for audiences. He emphasized that this project offers not only fresh ways to experience a beloved story but also new opportunities for studios and filmmakers.
A New Experience for a New Generation
As "The Wizard of Oz" prepares for its grand unveiling in Las Vegas, audiences can anticipate a one-of-a-kind experience that combines nostalgia with modern technology. This immersive adaptation aims to introduce this classic film to a new generation, all while honoring its historical significance within American cinema. With the use of cutting-edge AI technology and collaboration among industry leaders, the project promises to deliver a magical experience unlike anything seen before.
