‘Pixels and Pencils’ Panelists Talk the Dangers of AI, Demanding Animation Processes and the Importance of Human Creativity
Filmmakers at a “Pixels and Pencils” panel in Savannah argued that animation depends on human creativity and painstaking work that artificial intelligence cannot replace. Their comments matter as the industry weighs how emerging technology may affect artists and filmmaking.
The six panelists discussed the time and craft behind their films: Brad Bird said “Ray Gunn” took about 30 years from its first idea to release, while Travis Knight said stop-motion film “Wildwood” involved 2,800 shots. Daniel Chong described building every character, setting and detail from scratch, and the filmmakers said a story’s needs should guide its animation style. Bird urged artists to keep learning as the field changes.
In short
- Animators said human craft gives films their meaning.
- “Ray Gunn” took about 30 years to reach release.
- “Wildwood” used 2,800 stop-motion shots.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Animation’s value lies in the distinct choices, craft and emotional judgement people bring to stories; the panelists’ examples show how much care and time can go into making a film. Those who prioritise human-led work may also argue that protecting artists’ roles and livelihoods matters as new tools reshape the industry.
The case against
AI tools could help animators handle repetitive or technically demanding tasks, explore visual ideas more quickly and make some kinds of production more accessible. If used under artists’ direction, they might support rather than replace creative judgement, while allowing filmmakers to choose techniques that best serve each story.
Explained simply
Animation is made by creating a sequence of images that gives the impression of movement. Films can use hand-drawn images, computer-generated pictures or stop-motion, in which physical models are moved a little at a time and photographed.
The panel brought together filmmakers including Brad Bird, Travis Knight and Daniel Chong to discuss how animation is made. Their films use different techniques, but each involves artists shaping characters, settings and images to serve a story.
As studios explore artificial intelligence, questions remain about how it may affect the work and jobs of animators. Understanding the time and creative decisions involved helps explain why filmmakers are debating what role the technology should have.
AI Art Culture Entertainment Film Technology