China's first AI-generated film is a flop. Some still see it as the future (www.theguardian.com)

China's first fully AI-generated film, "Sanxingdui: Future Past," has garnered criticism and disappointment, grossing merely 1.7 million yuan (£191,000) against a production cost in the tens of millions. The film, which explores a dystopian world where algorithms dictate human decisions, was created using an in-house AI scriptwriting tool, Bowen, with visuals and some sound effects generated by AI. Critics noted its lack of entertainment value, with elements like uncanny character animations contributing to a less-than-stellar experience. Despite its underwhelming reception, industry insiders believe this AI-generated project marks a pivotal moment in Chinese cinema, suggesting a shift toward AI-driven productions due to their potential for cost reduction. Features typically requiring large crews can now be accomplished by a fraction of that workforce, raising concerns about job loss in the traditional film industry. While audiences expressed preference for engaging cinematic experiences over AI's current offerings, the success of numerous AI-generated microdramas demonstrates an evolving landscape where AI's presence in storytelling may continue to grow, signaling a new era in entertainment.