Amid the growing concerns over global copyright issues, the launch of ByteDance’s video AI, “Shidance 2.0,” has sparked significant discussions just one week after its official release. Notably, the AI has been credited with creating a 15-second video of a fictional fight between Brad Pitt and Tom Cruise, gaining over 1.6 million views on X (formerly Twitter). This development prompted “Deadpool” scriptwriter Rhett Reese to remark, “I hate to say it, but Hollywood might be over.”
Shidance 2.0’s ability to significantly reduce costs and time, while maintaining storyline consistency, is among its most acclaimed features. However, the product has also drawn criticisms related to copyright infringement, as it has created content using existing intellectual properties (IP) without authorization. ByteDance has announced intentions to strengthen protective measures to prevent unauthorized use of IP and likeness rights, though specific details or timelines were not disclosed.
The response from Hollywood has been intense, with Disney accusing Shidance 2.0 of unauthorized use of its IPs such as Marvel and Star Wars. The American Motion Picture Association (MPA) and the Hollywood actors’ union SAG-AFTRA have also contended that such practices could threaten American jobs.
Japan is likewise reacting strongly, with the government launching an investigation into potential infringements on its anime IPs. The rapid spread of AI-generated videos featuring Japanese anime characters in undesirable scenarios has prompted immediate action. The Japan Animation Film Culture Alliance called for respect for creators’ rights.
Despite the attention, some industry experts believe that the impact of Shidance 2.0 remains limited due to its 15-second video creation capability, frequent errors, and issues with reusing produced content. Unlike the industry-standard Unreal Engine 5, which allows for extensive reuse of digital assets, Shidance 2.0’s current limitations suggest that resolving technical challenges is crucial for its future influence in the AI sector.