Amazon recently invested over $1 billion in the ambitious streaming series The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power, only to face a lackluster response from viewers. In light of this, they’re shifting gears with a revolutionary approach to streaming content: inviting creators to prove their abilities. A report from Business Insider revealed that Amazon is supporting an AI-driven streaming platform called Showrunner, designed to empower individuals to craft their own shows using generative AI tools.
Showrunner, developed by Fable Studio—a company that transitioned from virtual reality to AI media—gained attention in 2023 by releasing an AI version of South Park, coinciding with the ongoing writers’ strike aimed at safeguarding creatives against AI encroachment. The service launched a limited version last year, dubbed the “Netflix of AI,” which allowed users to create personalized episodes and storylines.
Now backed by Amazon, Showrunner is set to broaden its reach. According to Variety, the platform is transitioning from its closed alpha to a wider launch this Thursday, starting off free. Eventually, users can purchase credits ranging from $10 to $40 per month to create content with built-in generative AI tools. Initially, viewers can access content for free, and there are plans to share creations on platforms like YouTube.
Gizmodo reached out to Amazon regarding its investment in Showrunner and possible content partnerships with Fable Studio, but there has been no response as of the publication time.
Currently, Fable’s offerings mostly revolve around its own AI-generated content, which, to be frank, hasn’t garnered glowing reviews from audiences. Interestingly, Fable is exploring collaborations with Disney and other Hollywood studios to license popular intellectual properties for Showrunner, thus enabling users to reimagine their beloved movies and shows.
While Showrunner boasts innovative ideas, creating a unique version of an existing property often resembles glorified fan fiction. If a user produces a show that another person remixes, the original creator receives 40% of the revenue generated from the remix, according to Business Insider. However, the inherent reliance on AI-generated content might limit the overall quality of these shows.
Edward Saatchi, founder of Fable Studio, openly acknowledges the potential shortcomings: “Maybe nobody wants this and it won’t work,” he stated to Variety. It’s a bold move to use someone else’s funds to test the waters, but that’s the reality of innovation.
What can we expect from AI-driven content in the coming years? As technology evolves, so too will the possibilities of creative expression for audiences. Will Showrunner succeed in engaging viewers, or will it risk becoming a niche platform? Only time will tell, but there’s no denying the intrigue surrounding this new venture.
What impact will AI have on the future of streaming platforms? AI is poised to transform the media landscape, making it easier for creators to generate unique content with minimal resources.
Could Showrunner change how we consume entertainment? With the ability for users to craft personalized stories, Showrunner may redefine our viewing habits, enabling greater engagement with content.
Are traditional studios at risk with platforms like Showrunner? The rise of user-generated content platforms could disrupt conventional studios, forcing them to adapt to new trends in content consumption.
Is AI-generated content taken seriously by audiences? While some may embrace the novelty of AI-driven shows, others might question the creative authenticity behind such content, which could influence viewer acceptance.
For those intrigued by the intersection of technology and creativity, Showrunner represents a fascinating frontier. Stay tuned to explore more about AI’s impact on entertainment within our diverse content offerings at Moyens I/O.