For creatives, recent AI progress can be disquieting. It seems to be catching up more quickly than we can stay ahead, even in areas previously considered essentially human. Further, it isn't always programmed with benevolence—and even when it is, things can still go wrong.
These issues have moved Arielle Friedman, owner and CEO of a digital consulting company, to redefine AI consulting in the entertainment industry by bringing an ethical, human-centric approach. The award-winning documentary screenwriter shares insights on AI techniques that prioritize human flourishing.
Arielle has boasted about more than a decade in the digital consulting industry. Upon graduating from the University of British Columbia (UBC), she received her degree in Cognitive Systems, an interdisciplinary program combining AI, neurology, linguistics, and philosophy. Her degree explored the bridge and the chasm between the human mind and AI. Following her time at UBC, the digital expert has assisted more than fifty companies in achieving their digital aspirations.
Combining deep learning and Cognitive Science, Arielle provides a nuanced and profound approach to AI consulting. She's currently consulting on Serena, an upcoming sci-fi thriller directed by Rob Alicea, where she helps ground the AI-driven narrative in reality. While keeping the audience engaged, she adds a layer of expertise with her digital knowledge, making the AI portrayal more authentic.
While working with Alicea, Arielle managed to leave quite an impression. The Serena director noted that "it was quickly evident just how vast her knowledge of Artificial Intelligence goes," highlighting that "she never leads with fear, but, rather, seeks to understand and learn how we can integrate AI into our lives in a way that is additive, never destructive." Her hard work and dedication cement her as a highly sought-after entertainment and AI realism expert. The seasoned digital advisor operates from her consulting business, Alchemy Digital Advising, where she acts as CEO, prioritizing the usage of AI for film and TV.
As a young adult, Arielle read Kurt Vonnegut's novel Cat's Cradle, which helped shape her opinions. The story involves a scientist narrowly focused on progress who creates a technology that threatens to destroy the world. Arielle promotes a stance on AI development that is both thoughtful and ethical. She also cautions against ungoverned techno-optimism. Her experience with literature and philosophy helped shape her view that technology can cause more harm than hope when placed in the wrong hands.
Arielle applies her knowledge of both neurology and technology, including quantitatively comparing the complexity of the human brain and ChatGPT. The expert advisor believes that creating technology is a moral act, encouraging the use of generative AI as a supplement to humanity rather than a competitor.
Naturally, Arielle's successes didn't come without challenges along the way. During the pandemic, she was forced to pivot her focus to digital consulting. This turn of events led her to help businesses smoothly transition into the online environment. Arielle's digital consulting services address virtual needs while simultaneously considering the creative and operational aspects of company management.
Looking forward, Arielle has high hopes for her future in digital advising. She plans to expand her role in the entertainment industry while guiding more films and TV shows to incorporate AI in a manner that's both scientifically accurate and compelling for diverse audiences. She also offers consulting for film and TV productions looking to incorporate AI in animation. Her universal proposal props her up as a spearhead in reshaping AI's contributions to storytelling.
Follow Arielle's craft on her Substack, Analog Futures, where she extends insights on the complexities of AI and its relationship to humanity. Additionally, consider visiting her website, Alchemy Digital Advising, to explore her digital consulting services for TV and film productions that aim to boost and refine their use of AI.
