Hollywood Displeased with Seedance 2.0 Video Generator Launch
The recent launch of Seedance 2.0 by ByteDance has stirred significant controversy within Hollywood. This AI video generator has become a focal point for concerns regarding copyright infringement. Following its debut, various entertainment organizations have voiced their displeasure, asserting that the tool undermines the creative rights of artists and institutions.
Concerns Over Copyright Infringement
Seedance 2.0 allows users to create short videos, limited to 15 seconds, using simple text prompts. This update is primarily accessible to users in China via ByteDance’s Jianying app and will soon roll out to global audiences through the CapCut app.
However, the tool has faced backlash for its potential to misuse the likenesses of real individuals and intellectual property of established studios. Notable incidents include a video created using Seedance starring Tom Cruise and Brad Pitt, which drew sharp criticism from industry professionals.
Industry Response
In response to the growing concerns, the Motion Picture Association, led by CEO Charles Rivkin, demanded that ByteDance halt its infringing activities. Rivkin described the rapid proliferation of unauthorized content as a serious violation of copyright laws.
- “Seedance 2.0 has engaged in unauthorized use of U.S. copyrighted works on a massive scale,” Rivkin stated.
- The Human Artistry Campaign, involving various Hollywood unions, labeled Seedance 2.0 as an attack against creators globally.
- SAG-AFTRA expressed solidarity with studios, condemning the infringement fostered by Seedance 2.0.
Legal Actions from Major Studios
Disney has taken decisive legal steps against ByteDance, issuing a cease-and-desist letter accusing the company of a “virtual smash-and-grab” of its intellectual property, notably characters like Spider-Man and Baby Yoda. Similarly, Paramount Pictures followed suit with its own cease-and-desist notice, highlighting the unauthorized use of its iconic franchises.
Future of AI in Content Creation
While Disney has raised concerns about Seedance 2.0, it has also explored partnerships with AI companies, including a licensing deal with OpenAI. This dual stance reflects the complex dynamics between innovation and intellectual property rights within the entertainment industry.
As the debate intensifies, Hollywood’s response to AI-generated content will likely evolve further. The controversy surrounding Seedance 2.0 underscores the pressing need for clear guidelines and protections for creators in an increasingly digital landscape.
