AI in TV: Jargon Busting

You’ve probably heard of ChatGPT more times than you can count, but do you know what a GPT is? The acronyms and jargon can be mind-boggling - ‘LLM’ this, ‘ML’ that - and what on earth is a styleGAN?! 

At Gritty Talent we're big fans of keeping things simple and getting really clear on the detail. That’s why we’ve put together this quick-stop guide to AI language. These are the terms that you’re most likely to come across as the TV & Film industry embraces more tech-led workflows. 

If you’d like to view this guide as a PDF document, you can download it for free here. Be sure to share with your teams and colleagues!

AI (Artificial Intelligence)

The simulation of human intelligence processes by machines, especially computer systems. In TV and film, AI can be used to power digital tools that can assist in tasks such as editing, scriptwriting, data analysing and special effects.

AI Bias

The tendency of AI systems to produce results that can exacerbate human biases. A large portion of the data being used to train LLMs and other GenAI tools is not representative of the entire population, which then impacts a system’s responses. Other impacting factors include outdated data being used to train models, poorly designed algorithms, as well as where and how a system is deployed.

Algorithm

A set of rules or steps for solving a problem or performing a task. In TV and film, algorithms are used in various AI applications like recommendation systems, content analysis, and automated editing.

Augmented Reality (AR)

An interactive experience where real-world environments are enhanced by computer-generated perceptual information. In TV and film, AI-driven AR could be used to support immersive storytelling and interactive content.

Cloud Computing

The delivery of computing services—including servers, storage, databases, networking, software, analytics, and intelligence—over the internet ("the cloud"). In TV and film, cloud computing can be used for collaborative projects, remote production workflows, and storing large volumes of data efficiently.

Deep Learning

A type of machine learning involving neural networks with many layers, used for more complex tasks like image and voice recognition, essential in visual effects (VFX) and audio editing.

Deepfake

A technique using AI to create realistic but fake content by manipulating audio and video, often used in post-production for creative effects. There is a growing concern over the use of deepfake technology to spread misinformation and defame - particularly relating to politics.

Generative AI (GenAI)

A variation of AI focused on creating new content, such as text, images, audio, or video, based on input data. In TV and film, generative AI can be used for various creative tasks, including scriptwriting, visual effects, and automated content creation.

GPT (Generative Pre-trained Transformer)

A type of large language model developed by OpenAI that uses deep learning to produce human-like text based on input prompts. In TV and film, GPT can assist in scriptwriting, content generation, and dialogue creation.

Hallucinations

Instances where AI generates incorrect or nonsensical information that doesn't align with real-world facts. In TV and film, managing AI hallucinations is important to maintain accuracy and reliability in AI processes.

Large Language Model (LLM)

A type of AI model trained on vast amounts of text data to understand and generate human language. LLMs are used in TV and film for script analysis, dialogue generation, and content creation.

Machine Learning (ML)

A subset of AI that involves training algorithms on large datasets to recognise patterns and make predictions or decisions. It's used in TV and film for recommendation systems, predictive analytics, and more.

Natural Language Processing (NLP)

A field of AI that gives machines the ability to read, understand, and derive meaning from human language. In TV and film, NLP can be used in script analysis and automated subtitling.

Neural Network

A computer system modelled on the human brain and nervous system, crucial in AI for processing complex data patterns in video and audio editing.

NeRF (Neural Radiance Field)

A type of neural network used to generate 3D scenes from 2D images by predicting the colour and density of every point in a scene. This is particularly useful in creating realistic virtual environments in TV and film.

Predictive Analytics

The use of data, statistical algorithms, and machine learning techniques to identify the likelihood of future outcomes. In TV and film, it can be used for audience analysis and trend forecasting.

Procedural Animation

The use of algorithms and AI to automatically generate animation sequences. This is particularly useful in TV and film for creating realistic movements and behaviours without manual keyframing.

Real-time Rendering

The process of generating images in real-time, crucial for live broadcasts and virtual production. AI improves the efficiency and quality of real-time rendering.

Script Analysis

The use of AI to analyse scripts for elements like themes, character development, and pacing. This helps in pre-production planning and content optimisation.

StyleGAN

A type of generative adversarial network (GAN) used to create high-quality, realistic images. In TV and film, StyleGAN can be used for generating backgrounds, props, and character designs.

Synthetic Media

Media content created or altered by AI, including deepfakes, AI-generated scripts, and CGI elements. It can be used in TV and film for creative content production, though regulations are still being formed around its fair use and the need for transparency when implementing it.

Text-to-Speech (TTS)

AI technology that converts written text into spoken words. In TV and film, TTS can be used to deliver narration, voiceovers, and automated dialogue creation.

Virtual Production

The process of combining physical and virtual elements using computer-generated imagery (CGI), real-time rendering, and game-engine technology such as Unreal Engine to create film environments. AI enhances virtual production by optimising workflows and automating repetitive tasks.

Virtual Reality (VR)

A simulated experience that can be similar to or completely different from the real world through use of hardware like a VR headset i.e. Meta Quest. AI enhances VR by improving realism and interaction.