AI Transforms Gay Couple into Straight Pair in Chinese Horror Film, Sparks Controversy and Criticism

AI-Driven Censorship: Film Altered in China to Erase Same-Sex relationship

Hong Kong – A United states-based film distributor has formally objected to changes made to its film “Together” by a Chinese distribution partner, alleging unauthorized alterations using artificial intelligence. The modification involved digitally changing a same-sex relationship to a heterosexual one, sparking outrage and raising serious questions about censorship and creative control.

The Alteration and Initial response

Early this month, viewers attending preview screenings of “Together” in China noticed a critically important change. One of two male characters shown in a wedding scene had been digitally altered to appear as a woman, seemingly through the use of AI technology. The distributor, Neon, swiftly issued a statement Wednesday, denouncing the “unauthorized” edit made by chengdu-based Hishow. Neon demanded a halt to all screenings of the modified version, Deadline reported.

About the Film “Together”

“Together,” a body horror film written and directed by Australian filmmaker Michael Shanks, follows an american couple, portrayed by Alison Brie and Dave Franco, as they navigate relationship challenges while encountering a mysterious phenomenon. hishow initially scheduled pre-release screenings in eleven Chinese cities starting September 12, with a nationwide release planned for September 19.

Public Reaction and government Postponement

News of the alteration quickly spread across Chinese social media platforms. Users on Xiaohongshu, a popular platform similar to Instagram, expressed shock and disapproval, with one commenter describing the change as “outrageous” and noting the surprisingly convincing nature of the AI-generated modification. Shortly after, the China Film Group Corporation announced an indefinite postponement of the film’s nationwide release, citing a “change in the film’s distribution plan” without providing further explanation.

A Growing Trend of Censorship

while film censorship is not uncommon in China, this incident marks a new development-the request of AI technology to directly alter content. Previously, censorship primarily involved removing scenes deemed sensitive. This situation, however, represents a more insidious manipulation of the narrative itself. This practice aligns with a broader pattern of increasing restrictions targeting LGBTQ+ representation in China, which has included a 2021 ban on “effeminate” behavior on screen and the removal of LGBTQ+ storylines from popular television shows like “Friends” and “Bohemian Rhapsody.”

Experts suggest that this act demonstrates a clear stance by the Chinese government regarding sensitive topics. Jason Coe, a film and media studies instructor at the University of hong Kong, stated that authorities will actively enforce thes restrictions and explore innovative methods to do so.Zeng Hong, an assistant professor at Hong Kong Baptist University’s Academy of Film, expressed concerns about the implications for LGBTQ+ rights and representation in Chinese cinema.

Global Precedent: AI Alters Bollywood Film

This is not the first instance of AI being used to change a film’s narrative. Earlier this year, the 2013 Bollywood film “Raanjhanaa” was re-released in India with an altered ending, also using AI. The original ending depicted the death of a man in a cross-religious relationship, while the modified version showed his survival. The film’s director, Aanand L. Rai, strongly criticized the change, calling it a “deeply disrespectful” betrayal of the film’s original artistic vision.

Film	Country	Alteration	Technology Used
Together	china	Same-sex relationship altered to heterosexual	Artificial Intelligence
Raanjhanaa	India	Tragic ending changed to a happy ending	Artificial Intelligence

Did You Know? China’s censorship policies have historically focused on political and social issues, but the application of AI introduces a new level of subtlety and potential for manipulation.

Pro Tip: Stay informed about content restrictions and censorship trends in different regions to understand the context in which films and media are presented globally.

The Future of Film and AI

The use of AI in film editing presents both opportunities and challenges. While AI tools can enhance creative processes and streamline workflows, they also raise ethical concerns regarding artistic integrity and censorship. The incidents with “Together” and “Raanjhanaa” highlight the need for greater openness and accountability in the use of AI in filmmaking, and the importance of protecting creative freedom. It is likely that we will see more debates about the responsible use of AI in media as the technology continues to develop.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is artificial intelligence censorship? Artificial intelligence censorship involves using AI technology to alter or remove content deemed objectionable by authorities.
• How was the film “Together” altered? The film “Together” was altered in China through the use of AI to change a male character into a female character, effectively changing a same-sex relationship into a heterosexual one.
• Is censorship common in China? Yes, censorship is common in China, notably regarding content deemed politically sensitive or morally objectionable.
• What are the concerns surrounding AI-driven censorship? Concerns include the manipulation of artistic narratives, suppression of diverse perspectives, and the erosion of creative freedom.
• Has AI been used to alter films in other countries? Yes, in India, the film “Raanjhanaa” was re-released with an AI-altered ending.

What are your thoughts on the growing use of AI in film editing? Do you think this technology could lead to increased censorship, or will it offer new creative possibilities? Share your opinions in the comments below!

How does the “New Life” incident exemplify the potential for AI too amplify existing societal biases, specifically regarding LGBTQ+ individuals?

The Incident: “New Life” and the AI-Driven Alteration

A recent Chinese horror film, “New Life” (新人生), has ignited a firestorm of controversy after revealing a scene where an AI algorithm “corrects” the sexual orientation of a gay couple, transforming them into a heterosexual pair. The scene, which occurs during a supposed “treatment” for psychological issues, depicts the couple experiencing a digitally altered reality where their attraction shifts to the opposite sex. This has sparked widespread condemnation from LGBTQ+ advocates, film critics, and viewers globally, raising serious ethical concerns about the portrayal of LGBTQ+ portrayal in media, the misuse of artificial intelligence, and the reinforcement of harmful societal biases.The film’s use of AI technology to depict conversion therapy has been particularly disturbing.

Understanding the Scene and its Implications

the controversial scene unfolds as part of a broader narrative involving a psychological rehabilitation centre. The film utilizes deepfake technology and AI-generated content to visually represent the “re-education” process. Specifically:

* Visual Transformation: The AI alters the characters’ perceptions and attractions,showing them falling for individuals of the opposite sex.This is presented as a positive outcome.

* Narrative Framing: The film frames homosexuality as a psychological problem requiring “correction,” echoing dangerous and discredited practices like conversion therapy.

* Technological Reinforcement: The use of AI lends a veneer of scientific legitimacy to the harmful idea that sexual orientation can be changed. This is a key point of contention, as it normalizes a practice widely condemned by medical and psychological professionals.

The Backlash: Criticism and Censorship

The film’s release triggered immediate and intense backlash.

* Douban Score Plummets: The film’s rating on Douban, a popular Chinese film review website, plummeted after the controversy erupted.Users flooded the platform with negative reviews and criticisms.

* Social Media Outcry: Platforms like Weibo (China’s equivalent of twitter) saw a surge in discussions and condemnations,with hashtags related to the film and its problematic content trending. Many users expressed outrage at the film’s homophobic messaging.

* Censorship Attempts: Reports indicate that the film faced increased scrutiny from Chinese censors, with some screenings being cancelled or altered. However, the initial release and the controversy it generated had already amplified the discussion.

* International Condemnation: International LGBTQ+ organizations and human rights groups have issued statements condemning the film, calling for its removal and demanding accountability from the filmmakers. The incident has also raised concerns about cultural sensitivity and responsible AI growth.

The Role of AI and Ethical concerns

The “New Life” incident highlights the growing ethical dilemmas surrounding the use of AI in filmmaking and media production.

* Bias Amplification: AI algorithms are trained on data,and if that data reflects existing societal biases,the AI will inevitably perpetuate and even amplify those biases. In this case, the film’s AI reinforces harmful stereotypes about LGBTQ+ individuals.

* Deepfake Technology and Misinformation: The use of deepfakes raises concerns about the potential for manipulating reality and spreading misinformation. while deepfakes can be used for creative purposes, thay can also be weaponized to harm individuals and communities.

* Duty of Filmmakers: Filmmakers have a responsibility to consider the ethical implications of their work, especially when using powerful technologies like AI. The “New Life” case demonstrates the potential for harm when this responsibility is neglected.

* AI Ethics and regulation: The incident underscores the need for stronger AI ethics guidelines and regulations to prevent the misuse of this technology. This includes addressing issues of bias, openness, and accountability.

Conversion Therapy: A Harmful Practice

The film’s depiction of “correcting” sexual orientation directly references conversion therapy, a pseudoscientific practice that attempts to change a person’s sexual orientation or gender identity.

* Scientific Consensus: Major medical and psychological organizations, including the American Psychological Association and the World Health institution, have unequivocally condemned conversion therapy as harmful and ineffective.

* Psychological Harm: Conversion therapy has been linked to increased rates of depression, anxiety, self-harm, and suicide.

* Human Rights Violations: Many consider conversion therapy to be