How scared of AI should we be? A new documentary from Oscar winner seeks answer (www.cnbc.com)

Oscar-winning director Daniel Roher has released a thought-provoking documentary titled "The AI Doc: Or How I Became an Apocaloptimist," exploring the complex question of whether it's wise to bring a child into a world increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence. Featuring interviews with leading AI figures such as Sam Altman (OpenAI), Dario Amodei (Anthropic), and Demis Hassabis (Google DeepMind), the film delves into varying perspectives on AI's potential benefits and risks. Producers Diane Becker and Ted Tremper shared insights on the challenges faced during production, including the difficulty of obtaining interviews from major AI players and the need to create a narrative that remained relevant beyond fleeting headlines. The documentary serves as both an exploration of AI's promises and perils and a broader call for public engagement in the AI discourse. By addressing AI's implications simply and accessibly, the filmmakers hope to foster understanding and discussion among diverse audiences. Tremper noted a shift in his perspective, highlighting that the notion of having responsible adults managing AI is increasingly seen as a naive assumption. Becker emphasized the importance of public skepticism towards AI technologies, urging collective involvement in shaping the future of these tools, as they will significantly impact society in ways often not fully understood.