⮞   First of all, why did you decide to use AI to create a film when many artists are criticising AI?

Well, that’s a good first question. I suppose it was easier to use AI because it was me doing everything. I am a storyteller, a worldbuilder, and a creative. I’m not talented enough to draw animation, compose music, or have access to voice actors, but AI allows me to do that.

⮞   Is there any specific reason you chose to work with anime?

I love anime, and I love everything about Japan. My favourite genre is Isekai (Japanese youth get transported to a fantasy world), and I simply wanted to emulate that, but I also wanted a twist due to just starting with using AI.

⮞   The hero’s character in the film is a bit unconventional. Was this intentional, or did the story require it?

Ayumi Tanaka fits the tropes and cliches you expect in an Isekai, but what’s more, she can break the fourth wall. She’s like Deadpool but without looking like Ryan Reynold’s crossed with a Shar-pei. She knows I’m new at this, and my skills aren’t the best. Moreover, AI-generated content is still developing, and there is a long way to go before we even consider replacing talented artists. She’s there to tell you the truth at my expense.

⮞   What was your experience like working with ChatGPT? How satisfied were you with the process?

It’s a helpful tool for processing and putting my ideas into an accessible format. It’s also a role-playing tool for acting out scenes and tweaking what you want. 

⮞   Will you consider making more films in the future using ChatGPT?

Yes, much like my last answer, it’s a helpful tool. 

⮞   How long did it take to complete the film?

It takes around a month and a bit. I have a full-time job and can only follow my passion in my free time, and I work 40-hour-a-week shifts. I’m trying to transition into filmmaking as a career.

⮞   Did you intend to offer a subtle warning to the audience with the introduction of the section titled ‘Black Knight Rising’?

The title is more of a pun, as it references the Dark Knight Rising from Batman. In fact, there are a couple of hints at the beginning that spoil the ending for the savvy viewer.

⮞   The film’s dialogue merges fiction with reality. What prompted you to experiment with this approach?

It’s definitely memorable.

The whole idea was to let the audience know that the main character knows the truth and that she gets the joke. It’s a poorly produced anime created by just one guy learning to do everything on the go with AI, and it’s full of tropes and cliches. She’s not amused at all by it. 

⮞   While humor plays a significant role in the film, the primary themes are action and adventure. Did you aim to blend              these two genres?

First and foremost, it’s a parody, as it follows the tropes and cliches, and the character is aware of it all. She also knows everything about her world is AI-generated, and —she’s fed up! The Isekai aspect is just a way to use my favourite anime genre. 

⮞   Are you happy with the final result?

Pretty much. It’s the best I can do at the moment. I’ll just say that as my skills grow, so will Ayumi notice the changes.