Since its debut on Friday, the Russo Brothers' latest Netflix film, "The Electric State," has sparked widespread discussion, particularly regarding its use of AI. In the current industry climate, fans have been vocal about this innovative approach.

Joe Russo, who co-directed "Avengers: Infinity War" and "Avengers: Endgame" with his brother Anthony, has defended the use of AI in "The Electric State," specifically for voice modulation. He likened the process to something "any 10-year-old could do after watching a TikTok video." In an interview with The Times, Russo addressed the controversy, stating, "There’s a lot of finger-pointing and hyperbole because people are afraid. They don’t understand. But ultimately you’ll see AI used more significantly."

Russo further elaborated on the potential of AI, noting, "Also, AI is in its generative state now, where it has, as we call them, hallucinations. You can’t do mission-critical work with something that hallucinates. That is a reason self-driving cars haven’t taken over, or why AI surgery is not taking place worldwide. But in its generative state, AI is best suited towards creativity."

Despite opposition from many artists who view AI as contrary to creativity, major studios seem eager to integrate the technology once it's fully developed. In July 2024, Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos expressed that audiences "don’t care" about AI's involvement in their entertainment. He emphasized that the technology is "a great way for creators to tell better stories." Sarandos also highlighted the evolution of animation, stating, "Animation didn't get cheaper, it got better in the move from hand-drawn to CG animation, and more people work in animation today than ever in history. So I'm pretty sure there's a better business and a bigger business in making content 10% better than there is in making it 50% cheaper."

However, not everyone is quick to embrace AI. Last month, Marvel Studios denied using AI to create teaser posters for "The Fantastic Four: First Steps," despite noticeable anomalies in the imagery.

"The Electric State" was directed and produced by Anthony and Joe Russo, with a screenplay by Stephen McFeely and Christopher Markus, loosely based on Simon Stalenhag's 2018 illustrated novel. The film boasts a star-studded cast including Millie Bobby Brown, Chris Pratt, Ke Huy Quan, Woody Harrelson, Jason Alexander, Anthony Mackie, Jenny Slate, Giancarlo Esposito, Brian Cox, and Stanley Tucci.

IGN's review of "The Electric State" was less than favorable, rating it a 4/10 and describing it as "Marvel’s biggest hitmakers join forces again with the Netflix algorithm to deliver The Electric State, a $300-million anti-event movie."

The Russo Brothers are set to continue their collaboration with Marvel Studios, directing the upcoming films "Avengers: Doomsday" in 2026 and "Avengers: Secret Wars" in 2027.