The latest Marvel Cinematic Universe show, Secret Invasion, being streamed on Disney Plus is taking a novel approach to its opening credits, utilizing artificial intelligence to generate a unique, watercolor-like representation of its key themes and characters, according to Polygon. Director and executive producer Ali Selim confirmed that the introduction was devised by Method Studios employing artificial intelligence, a move that intriguingly echoes the series' central shape-shifting themes.
Selim, in a conversation with Polygon, explained the process, “When we reached out to the AI vendors, that was part of it — it just came right out of the shape-shifting, Skrull world identity, you know? Who did this? Who is this?” However, he admitted that while he doesn't "really understand" how artificial intelligence functions, he was captivated by the way AI could embody the sense of unease he wanted for the series. “We would talk to them about ideas and themes and words, and then the computer would go off and do something. And then we could change it a little bit by using words, and it would change.”
Method Studios, despite being approached for comments by Polygon, didn't share specific insights into their design process for the sequence. The team's portfolio, however, boasts of other Marvel shows such as Ms. Marvel, Loki, and Moon Knight, as well as Game of Thrones’ Battle of the Bastards and For All Mankind seasons 2 and 3.
Artificial intelligence's application in the realm of art is presently a contentious subject, eliciting a wide array of concerns, from artists' control over their work and styles to the demands of those uniting with the Writers Guild. Nonetheless, individuals like Selim and streamer Kaitlyn “Amouranth” Siragusa, who utilizes AI to create a chatbot version of herself, view AI as a potential boon that thrives in the intriguing interplay between reality and simulation.
As for Secret Invasion, Selim expressed his enthusiasm for the unique angle that Method Studios introduced to the series: “It felt explorative and inevitable, and exciting, and different.” He believes this AI involvement brings an extra layer of intrigue to the series, reinforcing the themes and providing viewers with a unique visual experience.
Marvel Using AI for Latest DisneyPlus Show