In a noteworthy development, Lionsgate has partnered with the video-centric artificial intelligence research firm Runway to train a new generative AI model utilizing Lionsgate's content. This collaboration will enable the entertainment company to leverage this technology for future film and television productions. Although specific details remain limited, both companies have stated that the new model will be tailored specifically to Lionsgate’s unique collection of film and television works and will be exclusive to the studio. The aim is to assist Lionsgate Studios and its creative teams—filmmakers, directors, and other talent—in enhancing their projects. Lionsgate is recognized for producing popular franchises such as John Wick and The Hunger Games. This agreement marks the first collaboration between Runway and a prominent Hollywood studio, with industry professionals closely monitoring the technology's potential due to its rapid capability to generate images and videos from text or image prompts. Additionally, as noted by Lionsgate vice chair Michael Burns, the technology aims to cut costs—a focus that resonates with all studios but especially with Lionsgate, which typically produces films and series with lower budgets compared to some of its counterparts’ blockbusters. “Runway presents a visionary partnership that will enable us to harness AI to create advanced, cost-efficient content production opportunities, ” said Burns. “Many of our filmmakers are already enthusiastic about how this technology could revolutionize their pre-production and post-production processes. We see AI as a valuable tool to enhance and improve our current operations. ” However, AI tools have sparked controversy in Hollywood, with labor unions expressing concerns over job displacement, while actors and musicians worry about the potential misuse of their likenesses.

Studios are also apprehensive about legal implications. Just last week, California Governor Gavin Newsom enacted legislation regulating AI performance replicas, and a group of documentary producers published guidelines on the appropriate use of generative AI in their genre. Despite the lingering legal ambiguities and labor concerns, studios are increasingly experimenting with AI tools. Runway positions itself as a partner for the creative community, facilitating the realization of artistic visions. “We are dedicated to providing artists, creators, and studios with the most effective tools to enhance their workflows and explore new means of storytelling, ” said Runway co-founder and CEO Cristóbal Valenzuela. “The evolution of art is intertwined with technological advancement, and these new models represent our efforts to create transformative avenues for artistic expression. The most captivating stories are still to be told. Lionsgate has an outstanding creative team and a clear strategy for integrating AI into their work—we are eager to assist in bringing their visions to fruition. ”