In this strange era that we live in, technology is the ever-growing constant of the world. It powers our cars, our homes, our gadgets and gizmos, and it might even generate our entertainment years down the line. But that doesn’t sound as awe-inspiring as it should, especially since this same revolutionary idea will eventually lead to several animators losing work to robots — such is the fear of our nation as every day passes. Even at the drive-thru, on live chat websites, and taking phone calls, automated messages and recordings are everywhere. There’s no escaping technology as it slowly overruns the globe and replaces the irreplaceable talent of human beings.

But as much as it might be integrated into our lives, technology won’t ever overthrow the authenticity of hard work and talent, as proven by Across the Spider-Verse, which is already being called one of animation’s greatest triumphs. This bold statement opened discourse on social media as to whether or not AI — an up-and-coming form of creating content online — could replicate the same mind-blowing graphics as hand-drawn storyboards. The answer is a resounding “no.”

The Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse trilogy uses a blend of hand-drawn and computer-generated animation to produce the desired “cartoony” effect that’s become synonymous with Miles Morales’ animated ventures. Although some parts use digital art, there isn’t a single trace of AI influence to be found; all of the animation is produced by hard-working animators, nothing more and nothing less.

Right now, generative AI is a looming threat in today’s society as it’s found the capability to write essays, make artwork and act weirdly similar to a real human — which is just plain uncomfortable. This is causing issues for students, who are becoming lazy and using AI to hand in their work, as well as artists, who are losing commissions to AI-generated art. There are also instances where AI can be used to converse with others or formulate sentences for a given situation, so the art of conversation is well and truly dead.

At least they’ll never be able to take Spider-Man from us, especially not if Beyond the Spider-Verse ends up being as jaw-dropping as the sequel. All we need to fight back against AI is a strong, durable, and untouchable trilogy.

Enjoy the beauty of hand-drawn animation for yourself. Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse is showing everywhere now.

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