We have already seen AI write episodes of "South Park" and generate animation. Soon, Netflix may offer a "Create Your Own Ending" button, where an AI writes a personalized finale based on your viewing history. This raises thorny copyright and ethics questions, but the technology is inevitable.
This is the "mirror" function of media. When entertainment content reflects the diverse reality of the world, it fosters empathy and understanding. It validates the experiences of underrepresented groups. However, there is also the "mold" function—the ability of media to shape reality. The #MeToo movement, for example, was significantly propelled by the narratives explored in entertainment content. When television shows depict complex female protagonists or normalize same-sex relationships, they shift the Overton window, making these concepts part of the mainstream societal norm.
Tools that help creators produce high-quality visuals and music at a fraction of the traditional cost.