March 5, 2024
Tom Graham, the CEO and co-founder of Metaphysic.ai, spoke at Professor Voloj Dessauer’s seminar. Graham’s talk centered around the use of hyperrealistic generative AI - also known as ‘deep fakes’ – in the movie and music industry.
Metaphysic is an industry leader in this new space. The London-based company first garnered international attention with the viral "DeepTomCruise" deep fake videos on TikTok. Its technology was also witnessed by millions when it created a ‘live’ performance of Elvis Presley on “America’s Got Talent.” Named one of the Most Influential Companies of 2023 by Time Magazine, Metaphysic also partnered with Miramax on the forthcoming movie “Here,” where its technology will deage actor Tom Hanks.
Graham, who holds a law degree from Harvard, spoke about his career from corporate lawyer to serial entrepreneur; ethical challenges regarding the misuse of deep fake technology; and novel copyright questions that emerge from this nascent industry.
For instance, should artists be able to copyright their AI likeness? This question came to the fore when a Drake song, “Heart on My Sleeve,” went viral earlier this year. Millions of people listened to the song not realizing that it was solely created by AI. Streaming services eventually took it down; however they did so not because the song used Drake’s AI likeness but rather because it included a sample of a master recording from a song that it was not cleared to use. Whether Drake has a viable copyright claim against the song’s creator for using his AI likeness remains an open question.
Graham believes that in the near future, it will be increasingly common for artists to license their AI likeness, whether it is their voice, face or other biometrical data. Metaphysic also works with artists to help them copyright their AI likenesses and monitor the internet for copyright infringements.
Graham’s visit to FSU is part of the law school’s ongoing commitment to exploring the intersection of technology and law, ensuring that FSU law students are prepared to navigate the complexities of the digital age. “It was a great honor to have Tom speak to our students," said Professor Voloj Dessauer, who also serves as the executive director of the law school’s newly established Institute of Law, Technology and Innovation. "Metaphysic is a pioneer in working with film studios on the responsible use of AI, a topic that was at the heart of the recent writers’ strike. It was so interesting to hear both about the perils and promises of this new technology. As a former lawyer, Tom was uniquely able to discuss the challenging ethical and legal questions that arise from this new technology. We are grateful that he took the time to speak to us today. ”
About Metaphysic.ai: Metaphysic.ai is a leading AI technology company specializing in the creation of hyperrealistic AIgenerated content. Founded by Thomas Graham and his team, the company is dedicated to developing ethical AI solutions that empower individuals to manage and protect their digital identities.
More about metaphsic.ai:
Metaphysic.ai
TED Talk, "The incredible creativity of deepfakes — and the worrying future of AI"
TIME article, "Metaphysic: AI for Hollywood"