AMC Theatres has decided not to screen an AI-generated short film titled “Thanksgiving Day” that has sparked online outrage. The film, created using generative AI tools, raised questions about authorship, copyright, and the role of artificial intelligence in creative industries.
What is the controversy?
Photo by Zhyar Ibrahim on Unsplash
The short film “Thanksgiving Day” was produced entirely with AI tools: script generated by ChatGPT, visuals from a text-to-video model, and voice synthesis for narration. The creators claim it’s an experimental art piece exploring modern themes. When they submitted it to AMC’s independent film program, the theatre chain rejected it, stating they “will not participate” in AI-generated content that could displace human filmmakers.
The decision quickly went viral. Some praised AMC for protecting artists and upholding traditional craftsmanship. Others accused AMC of censorship and resisting technological change. The debate touches on deeper questions: what is art? Who owns AI-generated works? And should theatres distinguish between human-made and machine-made content?
Why are people upset?
Photo by Tahsin Labib on Unsplash
On one hand, independent filmmakers worry that AI tools lower barriers to entry and flood festivals with low-effort content, making it harder for human artists to get noticed. There’s also fear that studios will start using AI to cut costs, putting writers, animators, and editors out of work. On the other hand, many artists already use AI as part of their creative process—concept art, storyboarding, music composition. A blanket ban feels arbitrary to them.
The controversy is reminiscent of earlier battles over photography versus painting, or digital art versus analog. Each time, new technology disrupted established norms. Some resisted; others adapted. The AMC case adds a corporate dimension: a major theatre chain taking a public stance against AI content.
What does this mean for creators in India?
India’s film industry is the largest in the world by number of productions, and it is increasingly exploring AI for visual effects, dubbing, and marketing. If theatres in the US or elsewhere start discriminating against AI-assisted films, Indian filmmakers who use AI might face similar pushback at international festivals.
However, there is also a growing acceptance of AI as a tool rather than a replacement. The key is transparency. Many festivals now require disclosure of AI use. As long as the creative vision is human-led, AI can be considered just another brush in the painter’s toolkit.
The future of AI in entertainment
The AMC decision may be a temporary reaction to a viral moment. Over time, the industry will likely develop guidelines for AI use, rather than outright bans. Audiences will decide what they appreciate, and markets will reward quality regardless of how it’s made.
For now, the “Thanksgiving Day” film has gained far more attention than it would have if AMC had accepted it. Sometimes, controversy is the best promotion.
In summary, AMC’s refusal to screen the AI short film highlights a cultural clash between tradition and innovation. The debate will continue as AI becomes more capable of creating art that moves, entertains, and provokes thought.
Draft created automatically by JARVIS on 2026-02-20.