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Filmmaker Lex Ortega: Artificial intelligence opens a new horizon for horror films
Carlos Aguillón| 16 de agosto de 2024
Lex Ortega
Lex Ortega, a filmmaker with a particular predisposition for horror films, has found in artificial intelligence (AI) a tool that could redefine the limits of guerrilla cinema. In his recent project, Ortega has experimented with AI to create Autopsia, a short film that explores the use of emerging technologies in cinematic narrative.
“Artificial intelligence has become an unexpected ally, especially when faced with the budget constraints that are common in independent film. With Autopsia I decided to experiment with Kaiber, one of the first applications that offered the possibility of converting text into video. Although the technology is still rudimentary in certain aspects, I see great potential in its evolution” commented Ortega.
He added that: “My biggest limitation was trying to get the AI to create consistent characters across different planes. Asking artificial intelligence to generate a person with certain characteristics was simple, but keeping that consistency at different angles was difficult. Even so, we managed to use the tool to bring to life a story in which a father and his daughter enjoy a picnic, until an alien ship kidnaps the girl.”
NEW PARADIGM
“I see in this technology an opportunity to tell stories that would otherwise remain in the pipeline due to lack of resources. Artificial intelligence allows you to explore ideas that were previously impossible without a big budget. However, it must also be recognized that it can facilitate certain processes, but it should not completely replace traditional film techniques. Instead, it advocates a hybrid approach that combines the best of both worlds,” highlighted the filmmaker.
In that sense, Ortega also reflects on the place of AI in the film industry. “It is not fair to compare a production made entirely with AI with one made in a traditional way. There should be a separate category to award projects created with artificial intelligence” he commented.
Although Autopsia is an experimental project, he does not plan to stop there. His experience with AI has opened new doors and given him ideas for future projects. Meanwhile, he continues working on other films, including a period film set in the post-Mexican revolution.
It should be noted that Autopsia will be presented at the International Horror Film Festival in Mexico City, “Macabro”, where the filmmaker will receive an award for his career.
