Runway Act-Two: How AI Video Tech Opens New Revenue Streams for Actors/Performers
A big announcement in AI filmmaking last week that I think is worth sharing.
Runway Act‑Two arrives
Runway just unveiled Runway Act‑Two, a groundbreaking feature that allows you to:
- Upload a reference video of your performance.
- Receive AI-generated footage that maps your performance.
Results: much more accurate and realistic facial expressions in AI videos
Showcased Videos:
- Watch a detailed explanation of this new update on YouTube: Runway Act-Two Video
- See examples of AI-generated footage on Instagram:
Why this matters
In my last conversation with award‑winning AI filmmaker Francesca Fini, she called video references a “game‑changer” for AI production. Why? Text prompts are too ambiguous, and still images lack motion data.
I believe this shift will create new opportunities for actors. Performers who supply high‑quality reference footage can collaborate directly with AI‑savvy directors—whether indie or studio‑scale:
- Actors provide the performance inputs
- AI filmmakers run the generative tools
I am certain that there will be a group of actors who decide to collaborate with AI filmmakers and star in AI‑generated films and series by providing high quality “reference videos”. (Some) actors that choose to do so, will find this collaboration incredibly lucrative.
Still, caution is crucial. I can’t stress this enough!
Many AI filmmaking teams respect talent — most, at the high level, have many years of experience as “traditional” filmmakers. They deeply respect actors and honour great performances.
But, bad-players exist in every profession; AI filmmaking is no different. If you decide to explore this frontier, tread very carefully. And ask questions: What tools are you using? Where are you intending to release content?
Feel free to share conversations with us if you are unsure about anything technical. We are genuinely here to help :)
Acting Pal’s next feature
Coming soon: “Projects,” a feature that enables the safe collaboration between actor, AI filmmaker, and distributor. This feature will not be for everyone. We know that. But for those who are interested in exploring, Acting Pal will be the place to safely do so.
Ignorance is not bliss
Burying our heads in the sand is not a strategy. AI is the most disruptive technology our industry has seen, and we must continue to educate ourselves about its implications—both good and bad.
I encourage you to explore the latest AI films on escape.ai where you can see where the technology is at now and where it is heading.
Francesca Fini’s new piece is particularly compelling: Watch it here
Join the conversation
I come from a family of actors; my dad and uncles are working actors (so was my grandfather when he was alive!). I understand the anxiety surrounding this technology very well!
I don’t have all the answers, but our mission at Acting Pal is and always will be to put actors first. Your criticisms and perspectives are welcome—together we can shape acting at the frontier.
Cameron Dejahang
Co-founder, Acting Pal