Hollywood Organizations Push Back Against ByteDance’s Seedance 2.0 AI Video Model
ByteDance, the Chinese company behind popular apps like TikTok, recently launched a new AI video model called Seedance 2.0, which has raised concerns among Hollywood organizations for its potential for copyright infringement. The updated model, currently available to Chinese users of ByteDance’s Jianying app with plans for a global rollout on the CapCut app, allows users to create videos using text prompts similar to tools like OpenAI’s Sora.
However, the lack of safeguards in Seedance 2.0 has led to criticism for enabling the creation of videos using the likeness of real people and intellectual property owned by studios. One user created a video of Tom Cruise fighting Brad Pitt with just a two-line prompt, sparking backlash from industry insiders. Screenwriter Rhett Reese expressed concern over the implications of such technology on the creative industry.
The Motion Picture Association, led by CEO Charles Rivkin, issued a statement calling on ByteDance to cease its infringing activity, citing the unauthorized use of copyrighted works on a massive scale. Hollywood unions and trade groups also condemned Seedance 2.0, labeling it as an attack on creators worldwide.
Disney-owned characters like Spider-Man, Darth Vader, and Baby Yoda have been featured in Seedance videos, prompting legal action from the entertainment giant. Disney has sent a cease-and-desist letter to ByteDance, accusing the company of exploiting its intellectual property and creating derivative works without permission.
While Disney has taken a firm stance against Seedance 2.0, the company has shown willingness to collaborate with AI companies under the right conditions. Disney has engaged in licensing deals with companies like OpenAI, demonstrating a more cooperative approach to leveraging AI technology.
As the controversy surrounding Seedance 2.0 continues to unfold, JS has reached out to ByteDance for comment on the matter.
