Warner Bros is facing backlash after deleting a behind-the-scenes video from the production of the film Supergirl. The clip featured director Craig Gillespie and actor Jason Momoa reviewing concept art for the character Lobo on a laptop. Fans and industry observers quickly flagged the images as AI-generated, pointing to the rapid iteration process and the visual style of the concept work as evidence. Warner Bros removed the video shortly after large media accounts began circulating it.
The swift removal of the footage caused a Streisand effect, drawing even more attention to the incident. Social media users and online film communities criticized the studio for using generative technology, especially given the history of comic book characters like Lobo. Many fans noted that a deep library of existing artwork makes the reliance on AI unnecessary. Critics argued that the move reflects a double standard where studios promote AI as the future while attempting to hide its use when it generates negative public reactions.
This incident highlights ongoing industry tensions regarding the use of AI in creative fields. The 2023 Hollywood strikes centered on protections for actors and writers against the encroachment of machine learning. While some directors have begun to adopt these tools for storyboarding, the audience response shows significant pushback against the practice. The Supergirl production is already under pressure due to its low box office performance, and this controversy adds to the negative sentiment surrounding the DC franchise.