Wonder Project and Amazon MGM Studios’ House of David is one of the first shows to fully integrate new AI tools into the production and visual effects process — as seen in Season 1, Episode 6, “Giants Awakened.”
Season 1 of House of David tells the story of the rise of the biblical figure David, played by Michael Iskander, who eventually becomes Israel’s most renowned and celebrated king. In “Giants Awakened,” viewers will discover the origin story of the demigod and mythical creature known as Goliath, portrayed by Martyn Ford.
To bring this breathtaking episode to life, Wonder Project utilized the latest AI tools to craft the epic tale of one of the Bible’s most iconic characters. For creator and co-showrunner Jon Erwin, these groundbreaking tools were essential in making this monumental story a reality.
“Episode six represents the first scene in a show that’s driven by generative AI tools,” Erwin said. “Many other traditional tools were used in the process. Real actors were used to perform the scene, but this represents a leap forward in technology in what we were able to achieve. These tools are more human, more creative, and more collaborative than any other tools that I have ever used in a VFX process. I say that as a showrunner, as an AI artist, and as a former animator.”
For Erwin and his team, adhering to all guild rules related to the inclusion of AI throughout the production process was paramount, as well as ensuring that no jobs would be affected by the use of AI technologies.
House of David represents a show that could not have been made without innovation, Erwin said. “The technology and the leaps forward in technology are essential to the journey of cinema. I want to thank Amazon and Prime Video for allowing us to innovate and learn what these tools are, what they can do, and how to use them effectively, legally, ethically, and in cooperation with all Guild guidelines. I’m grateful for the nearly 700 people working every day to make this show real.”
House of David’s first season garnered 22 million viewers in the first 17 days and is among the top 10 new series debuts in the US to date. The series has already been renewed for a second season, with Michael Iskander’s David set to return.
Season Two will follow the aftermath of the battle between David and Goliath and David’s rise to the throne. As he navigates palace politics, his family’s jealousy, and a growing romance, David steps deeper into his destiny and learns what it means to become a great leader.
House of David premiered on Thursday, February 27, exclusively on Prime Video. New episodes are released weekly leading up to the Season One finale, which drops on April 3.
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