Disney develops AI tool to de-age actors

Researchers at Disney have unveiled an AI-based tool that makes actors look older or younger. Gizmodo reports.

To create the algorithm, the developers compiled a database of thousands of randomly generated synthetic faces. They then used existing AI tools to age and rejuvenate the collected images.

The results of the algorithms were then used to train a new neural network called FRAN.

The tool, when given an input shot of the actor, does not generate the entire head. Instead, it predicts which parts of the face will change with age. These results are then overlaid onto the original image as an additional visual-information channel.

According to the developers, this approach accurately preserves the actor’s appearance and identity even when the head moves, the face looks to the side, and lighting conditions in the frame change. It also allows the visual-effects artist to adjust and fine-tune the generated AI alterations.

Researchers say FRAN will simplify work for visual-effects professionals and speed up shot processing from several weeks to a matter of hours.

Earlier this year, the creators of the thriller ‘The Tower’ used deepfakes instead of reshooting individual fragments of the film.

In July 2021, the creators of the documentary about the late chef Anthony Bourdain used AI to synthesised his voice and voiced several quotes.

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