TLDR:
- Toys “R” Us released an AI-generated ad created with OpenAI’s new video generation tool, Sora, sparking online backlash.
- The ad showcases the potential of AI-generated video but also highlights the shortcomings of the technology, leading to criticism from many.
Toys “R” Us recently unveiled an ad created using OpenAI’s video generation tool, Sora, which has not yet been released to the public. The ad features the company’s founder, Charles Lazarus, being inspired to create the brand after a vivid dream. While AI enthusiasts were excited about the use of AI for commercial purposes, critics found the output to be repulsive. The ad showcases the capabilities of AI-generated video but also reveals the weaknesses inherent to the technology. The footage features inconsistencies in character models and unnatural movements, leading to an unintentionally unsettling result.
Generative AI is facing increased scrutiny for its impact on creativity and human artistic expression. Using AI to automate creative processes is seen as cheap and disrespectful to artists who have dedicated their lives to perfecting their craft. Many critics expressed disappointment that generative AI is being used to target children, as seen with the backlash towards an AI-generated Winnie-the-Pooh series announced by Amazon. The automation of art is leading to a surge of spam and careless content aimed at children, sparking further criticism.