Audience Sparking Controversy over AI-Altered Wizard of Oz Screening at The Sphere, Las Vegas
In the world of entertainment, a significant controversy has arisen surrounding the modern update of the iconic 1939 film "The Wizard of Oz" at The Sphere in Las Vegas. The update, which includes AI-enhanced viewings, has sparked a heated debate among fans, film historians, and critics, with many expressing concerns about artistic integrity and altering a beloved classic.
The modern update employs advanced AI techniques, notably "outpainting," to expand the original 1930s footage to fit The Sphere's massive 160,000-square-foot wraparound LED screen. Over 90% of the film has been digitally altered, with changes made to smooth skin textures and expand scenes. Critics argue that these alterations are disrespectful to the original work and its creators, viewing them as a "desecration of art."
The production, which involves a large team of around 2,000 people, aims to enhance, not modify, the film’s experience. However, leaked clips of the changes have sparked a fierce backlash and ethical debates, especially since the original artists cannot consent to such alterations.
Alongside the AI edits, the experience also includes 4D effects like vibrating seats, custom scents, and wind to immerse viewers further. These gimmicks seem less controversial than the AI edits according to reports.
The production cost for this ambitious project is reportedly $80m, although the exact figure has not been specified. The scale of the project, involving 2,000 people and the technological demands of AI-enhanced restoration paired with cutting-edge theater effects, implies a very high production budget.
This controversy raises broader ethical questions about using AI to alter classic art forms, especially those involving deceased artists. It prompts a debate on the balance between technological innovation and preservation of artistic integrity, a question that continues to resonate in the realm of entertainment.
The premiere of the new version of "The Wizard of Oz" is scheduled for August 28. Whether the controversy will subside or escalate remains to be seen.
| Aspect | Details | |-----------------------------|---------------------------------------------------| | Backlash | Major backlash from fans, historians, and critics about AI altering the film's original artistry and consent issues[1][2] | | AI Enhancements | Over 90% of film altered; outpainting used for large screen expansion; resolution vastly enhanced[1] | | Additional Effects | 4D effects like scents, wind, vibrating seats added for immersion[2][3] | | Production Cost | Not specifically reported, but implied to be very high due to scale of AI work and venue technology[1][2] |
- The controversy surrounding the updated version of "The Wizard of Oz" at The Sphere in Las Vegas extends beyond the AI-enhanced viewings, with concerns about artistic integrity and the lack of consent from the original artists.
- In the realm of entertainment, the use of advanced technology like artificial-intelligence and 4D effects in classic movies and TV shows like "The Wizard of Oz" raises ethical questions about preserving artistic integrity and the balance between technological innovation and artistic respect.
