How Film and Television Enterprises Can Harness AI and Emerging Technologies for Sustainable Innovation
As the film and television industry undergoes rapid transformation, companies are increasingly recognizing that Artificial Intelligence (AI) and emerging filming technologies are not just production tools—they are strategic levers for innovation, competitiveness, and sustainable growth.
This week we’ve been reading an excellent and inspiring paper called “AI and Emerging Filming Technologies Reshape the New Driving Force for the Development of Film and Television Art Creation”, by researchers Han Minjie and Lan Yi. We found their work incredibly interesting because it highlighted enterprise strategies and forward-looking recommendations that provide a roadmap for industry-wide adoption.
It’s fascinating!
Strengthening Collaboration Between Enterprises and AI Innovators
According to Han and Lan, close cooperation between film and television enterprises and AI technology companies is critical for advancing the industry. They wrote how joint research and development initiatives allow for the creation of new technologies and production solutions that can elevate the quality, efficiency, and creative potential of film and television projects. And beyond technical innovation, those partnerships can provide essential funding, resources, and institutional support for academic research, bridging the gap between theory and applied production.
The authors argue that by leveraging AI and emerging filming technologies, companies can optimize production workflows, reduce costs, and improve output quality. These kinds of collaborations can also position enterprises to adapt to rapid industry changes, ensuring they maintain a competitive advantage as digital transformation reshapes the sector.
Building Talent for the Future of Filmmaking
A key insight of their research is a growing demand for professionals with hybrid skills: both creative expertise and technological proficiency. Han and Lan emphasize the importance of investment in talent development, calling on companies to establish training programs that integrate AI, VR, AR, and MR technologies with traditional filmmaking skills. Building a professional team capable of operating at the intersection of art and technology ensures long-term competitiveness and supports the sustainable development of the industry.
Pathways for Industry Transformation
Han and Lan’s paper also outlines broader strategies for innovation in film and television. AI applications are transforming multiple stages of production—from screenwriting and directing to performance and editing—allowing for more refined, personalized, and high-quality outputs. These tools not only streamline workflows and reduce resource waste, but also enable creators to experiment with new narrative forms and interactive experiences, responding more effectively to audience demands.
The research highlights the importance of balancing technological innovation with artistic integrity. AI provides technical scaffolding, while human creators infuse works with emotional depth, cultural nuance, and “humanistic care.” This synergy promotes both industrial efficiency and the continued evolution of film and television as a form of cultural expression.
Implications for Global Film and Television Development
While the paper draws primarily on China’s rapidly advancing media ecosystem, its insights have global relevance. Enterprises in Canada, the United States, and other countries can benefit from studying these models of collaboration, talent development, and AI integration. Embracing similar strategies, international filmmakers can accelerate the adoption of emerging technologies, expand creative possibilities, and ensure their industries remain competitive in an era defined by digital transformation.
Looking Ahead
Han and Lan conclude that as technology continues to advance, AI will play an increasingly central role in film and television production. Their study emphasizes the potential for inclusive, collaborative innovation that integrates human creativity with advanced technologies, promoting sustainable growth and expanding the creative horizons of the industry. For companies willing to embrace these changes, the future of film and television offers unprecedented opportunities to innovate, engage audiences, and redefine what is possible on screen.
Thanks to the authors for writing this paper. You can read the whole paper here.