The Importance of Research and Stakes in Storytelling

In this podcast episode, Ed Catmull, co-founder of Pixar, emphasizes the significance of conducting research and setting stakes in storytelling. He explains that relying on stereotypes from movies can result in derivative work, so it is crucial to explore the unknown and discover new perspectives. Catmull reflects on the exponential rate of change in computing over the years and questions why many leaders and managers in the industry failed to anticipate its implications. He also discusses the impact of AI on the animation industry, highlighting the changing economics and the potential for generative AI to create derivative content. Catmull emphasizes the importance of finding a balance between technology and storytelling to create meaningful and compelling films.