Scorsese Sparks Film Backlash Over AI Storyboards at 83 as Artists Denounce Black Forest Labs Role
Updated
Updated · The Guardian · Jun 3
Scorsese Sparks Film Backlash Over AI Storyboards at 83 as Artists Denounce Black Forest Labs Role
3 articles · Updated · The Guardian · Jun 3
Summary
Storyboard and concept artists sharply criticized Martin Scorsese after the New York Times reported he invested in, and advises, German text-to-image startup Black Forest Labs.
Scorsese, 83, said he has used the tool to turn ideas into storyboards faster in preproduction, calling it “creatively freeing” and a way to save time without sacrificing craft.
Karla Ortiz said the move insulted storyboard artists, while Castlevania director Samuel Deats condemned AI systems he said were built on artists’ stolen work.
The dispute adds Scorsese to a growing list of filmmakers publicly embracing AI, though the report said there is no indication he plans to use generated images in finished films.
As AI resurrects deceased actors, where does Hollywood draw the line between technological tribute and ethical exploitation?
After the 2026 Supreme Court ruling, how much human input is needed for an AI-assisted film to be copyrighted?
With AI trained on artists' work, what will protect their jobs from being devalued or replaced by algorithms?
Hollywood at a Crossroads: Scorsese’s AI Partnership, Industry Backlash, and the Battle Over Creativity and Job Security
Overview
On June 3, 2026, Martin Scorsese announced his partnership with Black Forest Labs, joining as an adviser and publicly embracing generative AI for storyboarding. This move, facilitated by introductions from BroadLight Capital and support from CAA co-founder Michael Ovitz, marks a tipping point in Hollywood’s acceptance of AI. Scorsese’s endorsement is seen as strong proof that AI technology works in filmmaking, signaling a new era where industry leaders are integrating advanced tools to enhance creativity and efficiency in the production process.