In a recent earnings call, Netflix quietly revealed a game-changing decision behind one of its latest original series: it used generative AI to produce visual effects. The show in question, an Argentine survival drama set in a ravaged landscape, has gone largely under the radar, but its behind-the-scenes story is making waves. By turning to artificial intelligence, the streamer demonstrated a willingness to explore novel methods for delivering cinematic spectacle on a tighter budget.
Faced with production costs that far exceed typical scripted series, Netflix opted for an automated approach rather than traditional VFX pipelines staffed by dozens of artists. The move wasn’t born purely out of innovation zeal—it was a practical choice. AI tools can generate complex imagery, from ruined skylines to weathered crowds, at a fraction of the cost and time. For Netflix, which releases dozens of shows annually, even incremental savings add up.
Yet turning over creative tasks to algorithms raises questions about craft and authorship. Skilled visual effects professionals bring nuance, artistic judgment and problem-solving to every frame—qualities that remain difficult to replicate with code alone. While AI can fill in background details and generate bulk assets, the human touch still defines the signature looks of blockbuster cinema. We’re now watching an industry at a crossroads: do we prioritize speed and savings, or do we safeguard centuries of visual storytelling expertise?
Beyond technique, there are ethical and employment considerations. As Hollywood experiments with digital labor, many artists fear reduced demand for their skills. VFX studios already operate on razor-thin margins, and the introduction of AI could further compress budgets. On the other hand, proponents argue that AI tools can act as assistants, freeing creatives to focus on high-impact tasks rather than rote work. Striking the right balance will require transparent standards, new training pathways and a clear understanding of where machines can augment—and where they must not replace—human ingenuity.
Ultimately, Netflix’s public embrace of AI-generated effects signals a turning point for streaming entertainment. It underscores the tension between cost efficiency and artistic excellence, and it forces industry stakeholders to reimagine how stories are crafted. As audiences, we’ll be watching not only the stories on screen but also how they are made—and what role humans and machines will each play in shaping the next era of visual storytelling.
