Compositing, the age-old process in filmmaking, involves placing actors in front of non-existent backgrounds. Chroma keying, using colored backdrops, has been the go-to method. Actors stand against a bright background (usually green) that is replaced with desired elements. The foreground merges with the background using transparent ‘alpha’ channels and RGB channels. While chroma keying may boast convenience and affordability, it is not without its drawbacks.

Now, Netflix is poised to revolutionize the world of visual effects technology. All set to step into the realm of AI, the streaming giant aims to eliminate the need for traditional green screens and elevate the realism and precision of visual effects in actuality and genuinity.

Netflix’s jump to AI setting aside the green screen concept

The researchers at Netflix are flying high while delving deep into technology with a new concept of Magenta Green Screen, rendering the traditional one obsolete. As per Decrypt, leveraging the prowess of artificial intelligence (AI), MGS revolutionizes visual effects in real-time, delivering heightened realism and precision. Netflix has already harnessed AI for bringing in a push to its viewers. It has even leveled up with its game of highlights. Meanwhile, the traditional green screen includes filming normal scenes amidst the green backdrop. This is later replaced using technology.

The process encounters challenges with foreground green elements and intricate details. MGS tackles these hurdles by using AI to replace the green channel seamlessly. It allows actors to be instantly placed into new scenes with exceptional accuracy, even with transparent objects and hair strands. Netflix has also been leveraging AI to bring a new persona of original colors. While some remain skeptical about the practicality of MGS in fast-paced shooting environments, Netflix envisions simplifying the process, enabling talented artists to focus on their creativity.

Netflix might be taking a big step with AI, but MCU has already deepened its AI usage way before.

MCU’s Secret Invasion AI usage faced backlash

Marvel’s Secret Invasion series, based on the popular 2008 Marvel Comics, has left fans disappointed as it incorporates artificial intelligence (AI) in its opening credits. Despite high anticipation, the use of AI in the show’s creative production has sparked ethical concerns and backlash on social media. Precisely, in a moment that stirred divisions across the internet, AI ventured into transforming the beloved actors from the iconic television show Friends into a strikingly unexpected ethnic group.

Secret Invasion had amassed a dedicated fan following since its announcement in 2020. The initial fan reaction fell short of expectations. Director and executive producer Ali Selim confirmed that AI was used to create the show’s title sequence. He stated that it was a suitable choice to capture the theme of distortion. Method Studios, known for their work on other Marvel series like Loki and Moon Knight, was hired by Marvel to handle the creation of Secret Invasion‘s title sequence.

The incorporation of AI has triggered criticism as well as appreciation. What do you think about Netflix’s usage of AI? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.