OpenAI’s Sora 2 Video Tool Sparks Hollywood Backlash Over IP Rights

OpenAI has launched a new video generator called Sora 2. The tool allows users to create hyperrealistic video clips from simple text prompts. This latest release occurred on September 30.

The launch has triggered immediate concern across Hollywood. Major studios and talent agencies fear the AI can easily reproduce copyrighted characters and intellectual property without permission.

WME Agency Opts Out All Clients from AI Tool

The powerful talent agency WME took swift action. According to The Hollywood Reporter, the agency sent an internal memo to its agents on October 1.

WME’s head of digital strategy, Chris Jacquemin, stated the agency notified OpenAI it was opting out all of its clients. This move protects actors, musicians, and other talent from having their likenesses used without consent. The memo highlighted a strong need for real protections for artists and creatives.

OpenAI Backtracks Amid Mounting Industry Pressure

Facing backlash, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman issued a public response. On October 3, he announced the company would give rightsholders more granular control over character generation.

Altman pitched the tool as a new form of “interactive fan fiction.” He suggested it could become a lucrative revenue stream for studios that choose to participate. However, his conciliatory tone acknowledged that rightsholders must decide how to proceed.

The situation remains fluid. It is unclear if this will lead to new licensing talks or a wave of lawsuits similar to those filed against other AI companies. The core issue of IP control in the AI age is now front and center for the entire entertainment industry.

The conflict over the Sora 2 AI video generator highlights a critical battle for creative rights. How this dispute resolves will set a crucial precedent for the future of intellectual property and artificial intelligence.

Info at your fingertips

What is OpenAI’s Sora 2?

It is a new AI video generator from OpenAI. The tool creates realistic video clips from text descriptions. It launched as an invite-only app in late September.

Why are Hollywood studios concerned?

They worry Sora 2 can replicate copyrighted characters and scenes. Tests show it can generate content from popular shows and video games without permission from the original creators.

What did talent agency WME do?

WME opted out all of its clients from the Sora 2 system. The agency sent a memo to its agents stating it notified OpenAI of this decision to protect client likenesses.

How did OpenAI respond to the criticism?

CEO Sam Altman promised more control for rightsholders. He said the company aims to let rightsholders decide how their characters and IP are used by the AI tool.

Could this lead to lawsuits?

It is a distinct possibility. Major studios have already filed lawsuits against other AI companies like Midjourney for similar IP infringement issues.