Overview
- Roth told Polygon that he “misspoke” and that generative AI was used in “a very small portion of a few scenes” after early reviewer copies and reporting prompted follow‑up questions.
- A reviewer copy of the film listed AI VFX firm Dark Half in the credits, but Roth has not identified which shots involved AI and representatives for both Roth and Dark Half did not answer requests for comment.
- Roth initially said he hand‑drew a Fleischer‑style animated sequence and worked with animators to refine it, then issued the clarification that limited AI was also used without specifying whether that applied to the animation.
- Online discussion, including a Reddit r/horror thread that alleged extensive AI use, and generally mixed to negative early reviews have amplified scrutiny of the production choices ahead of the theatrical opening.
- The episode adds to growing debate about how films should disclose generative AI work, and what to watch next are any detailed explanations from Roth or Dark Half and how audiences and critics respond after the Aug. 7 release.