July 17, 2026, 4:07 pm | Read time: 3 minutes
The use of artificial intelligence in art and culture remains highly controversial. Increasingly, prominent creatives and well-known studios are expressing interest in using AI for new productions. So far, the outcry from the fan community is almost guaranteed. The recent news that generative AI was used by Netflix for nearly 300 films and series this year alone is unlikely to change that.
Netflix uses AI multiple times
As reported by the U.S. industry magazine “Variety,” the streaming provider disclosed this in a new quarterly report. At the same time, they informed investors in a separate message that Netflix uses generative AI at various stages of production, from early conception to post-production and even the release itself, depending on the project.
The company cites examples such as the Brazilian soccer miniseries “Brasil 70: A Saga do Tri” and the docuseries “The American Experiment.” For both formats, Netflix used AI for “highly complex sequences” to depict large crowds or battle scenes.
Producing faster and cheaper
Netflix explains that they increasingly rely on artificial intelligence to release “higher quality” content faster and more affordably. In the case of “The American Experiment,” Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos mentioned that sections were produced “twice as fast for half the cost.” This even extends to the point where important moments would otherwise be missing without the use of AI.
Nevertheless, the focus remains on real artists, who are merely provided with better tools through AI for more effective and efficient work.
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Fans are not thrilled
The reactions were swift. On the internet platform Reddit, for example, fans are already eagerly discussing this news. The consensus: negative, but it doesn’t change much about the already poor image. Some are convinced that Netflix titles looked bad even before the advent of AI.
One user describes Netflix simply as a “bad company that doesn’t appreciate its employees.” Another wonders if at least subscription prices will drop due to cost savings–though they are not given much hope.
Is “Stranger Things” affected too?
With nearly 300 titles, it’s possible that some well-known titles are included. None of this is confirmed, but in another Reddit discussion, a user also mentions “Stranger Things.” The reason: In a behind-the-scenes documentary about the series, open ChatGPT tabs were reportedly visible on employees’ computers.
Also interesting: Opinion on Google’s AI film tool–”The End of Art!”
The long-term effects of AI use on Netflix remain to be seen. It’s quite possible that at least some users will turn away from the platform because of it. It’s fortunate that the streaming service is currently offering free trial subscriptions again. The reactions are no surprise. For instance, the well-known Hollywood director Darren Aronofsky faced a lot of criticism for his AI-generated documentary from fans and professionals earlier this year.