Parliamentary committee role return for AI and film expert

A new group of MPs are set to hear expert insights on how best to support the UK movie industry from a University of Reading film specialist.

 

Dr Dominic Lees, of the University of Reading’s School of Film, Theatre and Television, has been reappointed as a Special Advisor to Parliament’s Culture, Media and Sport Committee’s inquiry into UK Film and High-end Television. 

 

The new inquiry follows on from work begun by the predecessor committee in July last year and cut short by the general election. It will investigate what needs to be done to ensure the UK cements its reputation as a world-leading destination for film and TV production, and how to support British independent filmmaking. 

 

The inquiry will also look at the ethical use of artificial intelligence in film-making - a topic discussed recently by Dr Lees in a sold-out public lecture. 

 

Dr Lees said: “The UK is fast becoming a world leader for film and TV production as more studios open around the country including Shinfield Studios here at Reading. The rise of artificial intelligence presents both an opportunity and a risk to the film industry. It could help filmmakers make movies quicker and cheaper, but its unethcial use breaches artists' copyright and it's a threat to actors and crew whose jobs may be at risk." 

 

“My job will be to advise MPs on how movie makers can make films using AI in a fair and proper way, as well as giving expert advice on what else the industry needs to make sure it keeps thriving.”

 

Dr Lees delivered the latest in the University of Reading’s public lectures on Wednesday, 30 October when he told a sold-out audience about the promise and the potential perils of AI in film and TV. 

 

The lecture was also live-streamed to an online audience. Watch a recording of the lecture.

 

The inquiry gets underway in November and is due to report later in 2025.