BFI Sets Out AI Roadmap to Propel UK Screen Sector Innovation and Ethics

BFI Sets Out AI Recommendations for the UK Screen Sector

The British Film Institute (BFI) has released a report outlining practical steps for the UK screen industry to make the most of AI technologies. Titled AI in the Screen Sector: Perspectives and Paths Forward, the report highlights the UK's strong creative technology base, with over 13,000 companies actively contributing to innovation.

From AI-enhanced dubbing and visual effects to interactive storytelling and automated content classification, UK creatives and technologists are already exploring new possibilities with generative AI tools and models.

Challenges Raised by Generative AI

The report identifies several key challenges that come with adopting generative AI in the screen sector. One major concern is the use of copyrighted materials—such as over 100,000 film and TV scripts—in training AI models without proper payment or permission from rights holders.

Other issues include protecting human creative control, addressing fears of job losses due to automation, ensuring investment in new skill training, reducing AI’s carbon footprint, and managing risks related to biased data influencing creative content.

Key Recommendations for the Sector

To address these challenges and support growth, the report suggests:

• Positioning the UK as a leading market for intellectual property (IP) licensing for AI training
• Embedding sustainability standards to lower AI’s environmental impact
• Encouraging cross-disciplinary collaboration to build ethical and culturally inclusive AI tools
• Pooling knowledge and developing workforce skills that complement AI
• Increasing public awareness about AI’s role in screen content
• Supporting the digital content production sector to adapt and expand
• Attracting investment to boost the creative technology sector’s potential
• Empowering independent creators with accessible AI tools, funding, and ethical AI products

Why This Matters to Creatives

AI is already part of the creative process in the screen sector, with recent examples including AI-assisted post-production on award-winning projects. The report highlights this moment as critical for action, urging the sector to move quickly on these strategic fronts.

For creatives, this means opportunities to engage with AI tools that enhance storytelling and production, while also advocating for fair practices and sustainable use of technology.

If you’re interested in developing AI-related skills relevant to creative industries, consider exploring courses and resources available at Complete AI Training.