The use of artificial intelligence in post-production has sparked debate, particularly regarding the film The Brutalist. Director Brady Corbet defended the decision to modify Adrien Brody and Felicity Jones' Hungarian dialogue using speech synthesis software Respeecher. He emphasized that the actors' performances remained authentic, highlighting their extensive preparation with dialect coach Tanera Marshall. Editor Dávid Jancsó, a native Hungarian speaker, acknowledged the controversy but advocated for an open discussion on AI's benefits in filmmaking. The technology has been used previously in projects like Disney+'s Obi-Wan Kenobi and The Mandalorian, underscoring its growing prevalence in the industry.

Preserving Authenticity Through Technology

In response to the controversy surrounding the use of AI in The Brutalist, director Brady Corbet clarified that the primary aim was to refine the actors' Hungarian dialogue for accuracy while preserving the integrity of their performances. Brody and Jones underwent months of rigorous training with dialect coach Tanera Marshall to perfect their accents. This meticulous preparation ensured that their portrayal remained genuine and deeply rooted in human effort and creativity. Corbet stressed that every aspect of the film's creation was driven by collaboration and dedication to authenticity.

Corbet further elaborated on the importance of maintaining the essence of Brody and Jones' performances. Despite the use of AI-driven technology, he asserted that their work is entirely their own. The refinement of vowels and letters was done with utmost respect for the craft. The director highlighted that The Brutalist explores human complexity, making it crucial to ensure that every element, including dialogue, reflects this theme accurately. The team took great care to balance technological assistance with artistic integrity, ensuring that the final product honored the actors' contributions.

Navigating the AI Controversy

Dávid Jancsó, the editor of The Brutalist, addressed the controversy by emphasizing the practical benefits of using AI in post-production. As a native Hungarian speaker, Jancsó explained that most of Brody and Jones' Hungarian dialogue incorporated elements of his own voice through Respeecher. This approach aimed to streamline the post-production process without compromising the quality or authenticity of the performances. Jancsó argued that AI should not be a contentious topic within the industry and called for a more open dialogue about the tools it can provide.

Jancsó pointed out that AI technologies have been utilized in various high-profile productions, such as Disney+'s Obi-Wan Kenobi and The Mandalorian, where they were employed to recapture the voices of James Earl Jones and Mark Hamill. These examples demonstrate that AI is becoming an increasingly common practice in post-production. By speeding up processes and enhancing vocal ranges, AI offers significant advantages. However, Jancsó also acknowledged the need for transparency and ethical considerations when integrating these technologies into filmmaking. The broader acceptance of AI in the industry could pave the way for innovative storytelling methods while respecting traditional craftsmanship.