Podcast Recap: AI Civil War in Hollywood. Point-Counter-Point
Host: Chris Jai Alex
Guests: Keith Arem, Ben Ramsey, Drew McClellan
Special Guest: Jeff Thompson (Oracle / USC Annenberg, LA County Workforce)
AI Rise Of The Machines, Civil War in Hollywood
A deep dive into the growing tensions in the entertainment industry due to artificial intelligence (AI) and artificial general intelligence (AGI). The conversation focused on:
- The Skydance x Paramount merger and Oracle’s role in workforce integration.
- The impact of AI/AGI on careers across creative sectors.
- Advice for youth entering the workforce:
“Apprenticeships unlock AI careers across sectors.”
Core Topics Discussed
Studio Use of AI
- Studios now use AI for scripts, posters, music, and marketing automation.
- Concerns about authenticity and creative quality are growing.
Ethical & Legal Dilemmas
- Copyright issues, ownership rights, and bias in AI outputs were highlighted.
- AI can unintentionally spread misinformation or reinforce harmful stereotypes.
Displacement of Creatives
- Growing anxiety among writers, artists, and actors about losing work to machines.
- Emphasis on WGA and SAG-AFTRA strike demands, which include protections against AI-generated labor.
Economic Impact
- AI brings cost savings and increased efficiency—but at what cost?
- Fears of job displacement and shifts in industry power dynamics.
Rise of the Machines Narrative
- Cultural and media framing pits humans vs. machines.
- Discussion centered on whether AI is a threat or opportunity for creative professionals.
Examples & Case Studies
- A24’s “Civil War” AI-Generated Posters:
Public backlash highlighted artistic limitations and threats to traditional roles. - WGA & SAG Strikes:
Negotiations called for strong AI clauses to preserve human creativity and fair compensation.
Takeaway for Youth
“Don’t just consume AI—learn to build with it. Creative-tech apprenticeships are your entry point into a future-proof career.”
- Projections and forecasting on the creative- workforce for preparing youth for AI-integrated roles.
- Leveraging LA county and state workforce programs to upskill in emerging tech fields.

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