
Netflix admits it used generative AI in a big sci-fi hit to cut costs
Emma Roth
created: July 18, 2025, 5:11 p.m. | updated: July 19, 2025, 11:58 a.m.
is a news writer who covers the streaming wars, consumer tech, crypto, social media, and much more.
Netflix used generative AI to create a scene in the sci-fi series The Eternaut — a first for one of the streamer’s original shows or films.
During an earnings call on Thursday, Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos said the use of AI was faster than using traditional visual effects tools and helped cut costs.
“That VFX sequence was completed 10 times faster than it could have been completed with traditional VFX tools and workflows,” Sarandos said during the call.
“We remain convinced that AI represents an incredible opportunity to help creators make films and series better, not just cheaper,” he added.
1 month, 1 week ago: The Verge