Is India’s First AI Movie the Future of Cinema? | DW News

Key Concepts:

• AI-generated film
• Democratization of filmmaking
• AI visuals
• Runway, Kling, Pika Labs, 11 Labs
• Live-action vs. AI film production

Nisha: India's First AI-Generated Film

India's first AI-generated film, "Nisha," is slated for release in May 2025. The film utilizes fully AI-generated visuals, characters, and voice acting.

AI Software and Production Time

The film was created using AI software such as Runway, Kling, Pika Labs, and 11 Labs. Director Vi Anandalia completed the film in just 8 months using AI tools.

Cost and Time Comparison: AI vs. Live-Action

Anandalia states that producing the film in live-action would have taken at least a year and required a budget 20 times higher than the AI-generated production.

Democratization of Filmmaking

Anandalia believes that AI will democratize filmmaking in India, enabling more storytellers to create films without the need for substantial budgets.

Audience Reception and Concerns

Online reactions to "Nisha" are mixed. A common sentiment is that the AI visuals appear "soulless." The question is raised whether this film represents the future of filmmaking or is merely a passing experiment.

Conclusion

"Nisha" represents a significant step in AI-driven filmmaking in India, potentially lowering production costs and barriers to entry. However, the film's reception hinges on audience acceptance of AI-generated visuals and whether they can overcome concerns about the lack of "soul" in AI-created content. The film's success will likely influence the future trajectory of AI's role in the Indian film industry.