Babelsberg tests AI and virtual production in five series
A new masterclass uses the LEDcave and Grey Stage for trailers, pilots and financing materials.
Translated from Dutch by AI
Studio Babelsberg has launched a programme in which five series projects are testing AI and virtual production at an early development stage. According to the report, the projects are intended to produce trailers, pilot episodes and proof-of-concept material for financing and international sales, among other purposes.
The masterclass is not focused on full production using generative AI, but on the stage at which producers develop a concept visually. According to the description, participants can test ideas early with virtual sets, previs, short scenes and pitch materials before a full shoot is financed.
The technical basis consists of Studio Babelsberg’s LEDcave and Grey Stage. The LEDcave combines real-time camera footage with digital backgrounds; the Grey Stage is equipped for greenscreen, motion capture and scanning, among other uses. Such workflows can bring decisions about visual language, locations and effects forward in the development process.
The five selected projects are Ins Reich, Oval, Otherland, Conspiracy and Grisella. They are being supported by an expert team led by visual-effects specialist Marc Weigert. The programme is backed by T-Systems, Nvidia and MediaTech Hub Potsdam.
Mediaboard Berlin-Brandenburg is contributing €595,000, with support from Brandenburg’s Ministry of Economic Affairs. The funding is intended for a programme lasting several months, with the materials due to be completed in spring 2027.
For producers, this approach also raises practical questions: does creating concept images with AI save time, what does the additional technology cost and how usable is the material in a professional production? The value of the material to financiers and international partners also remains to be seen.
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The masterclass, five projects, technical facilities and funding have been confirmed by DWDL and Studio Babelsberg. The text makes no predictions about commercial or artistic results.
- Confirmed Five series projects are taking part in the masterclass. — DWDL names the five selected projects.
- Confirmed Mediaboard Berlin-Brandenburg is contributing €595,000. — The amount is stated in reports about the programme.
- Confirmed The LEDcave and Grey Stage support real-time, greenscreen, motion-capture and scanning workflows. — Studio Babelsberg describes the two stages and their functions.