While "Spider-Man: Brand New Day" saw impressive box office and critical reception after its release, a recently unveiled concept art piece from "Spider-Man: Brand New Day - The Art of the Movie" has ignited controversy due to its suspected use of generative AI.
Titled "Big City, Little Spider," the piece, created by concept artist Scott McInnes, depicts Peter Parker's New York City. However, fans quickly pointed out abnormal distortions in some buildings and taxis, with vehicles appearing to merge and fire escapes on the left-side building showing signs of deformation—all hallmarks of common AI generation errors.
Reports indicate that after reviewing other concept art in the collection, this particular piece is the only one showing such noticeable AI characteristics. McInnes boasts an extensive resume, having previously contributed to films like "Morbius," "The Fantastic Four," "Guardians of the Galaxy," "Gladiator II," and "Wonka." This solid background has only intensified the debate over whether Marvel and Hollywood studios are now integrating AI into the early development stages of major blockbusters.
This isn't Marvel Studios' first brush with AI controversy; back in 2023, "Secret Invasion" faced fan backlash over its AI-generated opening credits. Furthermore, mass layoffs within Marvel's visual development team months prior had already fueled speculation about AI's potential impact on concept artists, illustrators, and designers.
While officials have not directly linked the layoffs to AI, the alleged inclusion of AI-generated elements in "Brand New Day's" art book has reignited these concerns. The situation is particularly sensitive given that such content, if merely for internal conceptualization, is now appearing in a nearly $50 collector's book, leading fans to question major studios' transparency with both creators and audiences.
This controversy also extends to future MCU projects. The Russo Brothers have previously stated that AI could become a valuable tool in filmmaking, provided artists retain control, while Industrial Light & Magic executives advocate for AI's cautious use, contingent on securing training data rights and actor permissions.
In fact, DC's "Supergirl" previously faced backlash over AI-generated concept art. How superhero blockbusters will define the line between AI as an assistive tool and a replacement for human creativity will likely remain one of Hollywood's most sensitive topics moving forward.
via： The Direct