TL;DR
- RuPaul’s film faces AI backlash online.
- Claims of generative AI usage were denied.
- Acme AI & FX involved, but no generative AI used.
- Film features a cast of LGBTQ+ and drag performers.
- Premieres in theaters on June 12.
In the world of drag and film, drama is always just around the corner, and RuPaul’s latest venture, Stop! That! Train!, is no exception. This upcoming action-comedy is already making waves before its release, with social media buzzing over rumors of generative AI being used in its production. But hold onto your wigs, darlings, because sources close to the film have confirmed that no generative AI was involved in the making of this fabulous flick.
The controversy kicked off thanks to a Letterboxd review by filmmaker and VFX artist Gloria Cook. After an early screening, Cook claimed that Stop! That! Train! featured “one of the most conspicuous uses of AI I’ve seen in a film,” and pointed to an AI company listed in the credits. Naturally, this sparked outrage among fans who believe that a film starring drag queens should be a pure, human-made artistic endeavor. One Twitter user, @ben_eales, even exclaimed, “RuPaul movie apparently confirmed to contain mass amounts of genAI… secret blessing that shit ain’t playing in the UK.”
Adding fuel to the fire, comedian Zach Zimmerman quipped about RuPaul’s supposed environmental concerns, sarcastically suggesting that a movie involving AI seemed out of character for the drag icon. Meanwhile, another user, @dykegenius, expressed their dismay over the supposed AI involvement, saying their friend made a pained sound upon hearing the news.
So what’s the real story? Directed by Adam Shankman and featuring a star-studded cast of Drag Race alums, including Ginger Minj, Jujubee, and Latrice Royale, Stop! That! Train! follows a drag queen-staffed train on a wild ride toward disaster. The film partnered with Acme AI & FX, a company that’s been touted as a game-changer in film production. According to a recent article from the Village Voice, Acme is “serving as VFX and AI partner” for the film, but they emphasize that they’re not replacing creative labor, just enhancing it.
In a statement to Out, a source from the film clarified that while Acme does use AI as a tool, it did not replace any human artists in the creation of the effects. This is a crucial distinction, especially in a field like drag, where creativity and self-expression reign supreme. The source urged fans not to be swayed by rumors and to support the film, which prominently features LGBTQ+ and drag talent.
Interestingly, this isn’t the first time RuPaul’s Drag Race has faced scrutiny over AI. Last year, the show was accused of using generative AI in an animated short featuring beloved alum Jinkx Monsoon, and fans were quick to label it as “soulless.” AI’s presence in Hollywood is a hot topic, with its use becoming increasingly common in various productions, but it’s clear that the drag community is not ready to let go of the human touch just yet.
As the premiere date of Stop! That! Train! approaches on June 12, fans are encouraged to keep an open mind and support this unique film that showcases the talents of drag performers and LGBTQ+ allies. After all, who wouldn’t want to see a runaway high-speed train filled with fabulous queens? Buckle up, because this ride is about to get wild!