Educating filmmakers in AI era: blending human intuition with technological innovation

How technology reshapes backstage

The swift growth of AI is transforming film production processes. According to Grand View Research, the global AI market in media and entertainment is expected to expand by 24.2% from 2025 to 2030.

Producers are adopting AI for its potential to reduce costs, streamline workflows, and accelerate timelines. Marvel utilized AI-generated visuals in promotional content for "Loki" (2023) and employed generative tools for the opening sequence of "Secret Invasion" (2023). Some AI applications are capable of rendering fully digital actors.

This advancement has led to AI-generated short films. At the 2024 Short Shorts Film Festival & Asia in Japan, AI-assisted films such as "The Artificial Conjuring Circle" (Austria) and "Dragon Gate" (China) were showcased.

Students in a filmmaking class at the British University Vietnam. Photo courtesy of BUV

However, as creativity is central to filmmaking, a key question arises: can AI fully replace human storytellers?

Renowned director James Cameron ("Avatar", "The Terminator") has expressed skepticism, stating that "AI can generate beautiful images but cannot reflect our human emotions."

Dr. Paul D.J. Moody, filmmaker and Head of the School of Communications and Creative Industries at the British University Vietnam (BUV), shares this perspective: "At its core, cinema is about human connection. Great films express empathy, relationships, and emotional intelligence, those are qualities AI cannot replicate. It takes creative intuition to tell a story that truly touches,"

Where future storytellers learn their craft

The next generation of filmmakers must integrate emotional intelligence with technological proficiency. Being intuitive, expressive, and digitally literate is essential to make a lasting impact in the industry.

"AI will undoubtedly influence the future of filmmaking," Moody notes. "But students must learn to use it as a tool, not depend on it. That's what will set them apart."

Students attending the Film & Media Production program at BUV. Photo courtesy of BUV

Leading this educational approach in Vietnam is BUV, which offers a modern, globally accredited degree in Film and Media Production. The program is delivered in partnership with the U.K.'s Arts University Bournemouth (AUB), known for excellence in creative education.

BUV emphasizes storytelling as the foundation of media and film. While students acquire skills in production and post-production, the focus remains on writing, visualizing, and structuring stories that engage audiences. Technology serves as a tool, but the story drives the impact.

BUV's hands-on curriculum encourages students to think and create professionally from the outset. Coursework includes real-world case studies and practical workshops led by experienced faculty and visiting industry experts.

Students attend a workshop series led by industry experts and production houses at BUV. Photo courtesy of BUV

State-of-the-art facilities—including cameras, sound systems, and a filming studio—support the learning experience. However, the emphasis is not solely on technical skills; students are prompted to understand the reasoning behind creative choices, such as "Why use this lens for this shot?" or "Why frame this moment in a particular way?"

Jon Renyard, university secretary of AUB, highlights the program's creative focus: "We don't teach students to follow formulas. Instead, we help them discover their own voice and take ownership of their projects from concept to final edit."

BUV's campus in Vietnam. Photo courtesy of BUV

The program integrates film history, cultural analysis, and critical thinking, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of their craft. Through essays, presentations, and research discussions, they develop storytelling abilities and an analytical mindset essential for today's media professionals.

With a faculty of internationally qualified lecturers and a broad network of industry partners, BUV offers internship opportunities starting in the first year. The program combines practical experience with the rigor of a U.K.-accredited degree, preparing graduates with the skills, insight, and confidence to succeed in the evolving film and media landscape.

British University Vietnam (BUV) is Vietnam's first QS 5-star university and the first in Vietnam and ASEAN accredited by the U.K.'s Quality Assurance Agency (QAA). BUV's curricula align with industry trends and blend theory and practice, resulting in 100% graduate employability or further study within three months of graduation.

For more information about the BA (Hons) Film and Media Production program at BUV, visit here.