Dreamworks Fights AI: ‘Bad Guys 2’ Credits Warn Against Training

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In a significant move reflecting Hollywood’s growing tension with artificial intelligence, Dreamworks Animation has included a stark warning at the conclusion of its new animated feature, The Bad Guys 2. The studio explicitly threatens legal action against any entity found using the film to train AI models.

This unprecedented disclaimer, initially highlighted by Twitter user Rendy Jones, appears clearly in the film’s end credits:

All rights in this work are reserved for purposes of laws in all jurisdictions pertaining to data mining or AI training, including but not limited to Article 4(3) of Directive (EU) 2019/790. This work may not be used to train AI.

The message clarifies Dreamworks’ intent to prevent AI algorithms from “data mining” their creative content. This practice, often referred to as ‘spawning,’ involves AI programs analyzing existing media to generate new, similar content, potentially without proper attribution or compensation to the original creators. By including this clause, Dreamworks aims to deter any unauthorized use of The Bad Guys 2 for AI training, signaling a readiness to pursue substantial lawsuits if infringement occurs.

The animation studio’s firm stance has resonated positively with fans and the wider creative community. Social media reactions indicate strong support for Dreamworks, with many echoing sentiments like, “Good on them. More creators should be this clear about protecting their work,” and labeling it a “Necessary disclaimer going forward.”

This assertive action is seen as a crucial step for animators and other industry professionals whose livelihoods are increasingly threatened by generative AI. Beyond duplicating existing visual content, AI has been controversially used in film and television for scriptwriting, voice synthesis, and subtitle translation, raising concerns about intellectual property rights and job security.

However, Dreamworks’ position highlights a deepening divide within the film industry. The studio’s clear rejection of AI training for its content comes just days after IMAX announced its partnership with Runway for the third annual AI Film Festival, which saw over six thousand AI-assisted film submissions. This contrast underscores the ongoing debate within Hollywood regarding AI’s role and future.

The Bad Guys 2 continues the adventures of reformed criminals Mr. Wolf (Sam Rockwell), Mr. Snake (Marc Maron), Mr. Piranha (Anthony Ramos), Mr. Shark (Craig Robinson), and Ms. Tarantula (Awkwafina). In this sequel, the notorious gang finds themselves entangled in a high-stakes heist orchestrated by new antagonists, the Bad Girls. The animated film is scheduled for release in theaters on August 1.