Ben Affleck is an AI nerd, and the internet is impressed
Actor Ben Affleck has gained viral attention for his technical knowledge of AI, machine learning, and neural networks during recent interviews. He discussed his background in technology and how he applies his understanding of computational processes to filmmaking.
Why it matters
It demonstrates the increasing mainstream integration of AI literacy among high-profile public figures and the creative industry.
They cast the wrong lead in “Good Will Hunting,” apparently, because it’s Ben Affleck who is the secret genius, as it turns out. The actor who earlier this year sold his AI filmmaking startup to Netflix for a reported $587 million has gone viral this week for demonstrating his understanding of AI technology, neural networks, machine learning, and the like, across multiple video clips of his recent interviews.
He can even write a little Python, he says.
The movie star delved into his interest in technology most recently on an episode of GQ’s “One More Question” series this week, where he humbly started with “I’ve always been kind of into computers since I was young,” before nerding out on the development of AI as it relates to filmmaking, while using AI terminology like machine learning, neural networks, transformers, tensors, GPUs, inference, and more.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in