In Les Cahiers des ICC 2025, Béatrice Bauwens, Head of Post-Production at MPC Paris and Liège, shares her perspective on the growing impact of artificial intelligence in the world of visual effects (VFX). For her, AI represents a new chapter in the evolution of an art form that began with Georges Méliès and has always been about pushing the boundaries of reality.
Rather than replacing traditional techniques, AI is expanding and enhancing them, paving the way for a more hybrid creative process. As Béatrice explains, this hybrid approach is already reshaping how teams work:
“What’s really going to change is the workflow – and that’s something I care deeply about.”
She points to several use cases: generating photorealistic images, improving CGI simulations, and even creating visual elements from simple text prompts. AI is also becoming a valuable tool for decision-making, scheduling, and streamlining communication between teams.
But at its core, the real challenge remains artistic.
“Just because anyone can make a film with an iPhone doesn’t mean everyone does,” she reminds us. Behind every tool—no matter how powerful—there must be a clear vision, intention, and artistic point of view. AI may help expand what’s possible, but it can’t replace a director’s sensitivity or the craftsmanship of VFX artists.
Béatrice also highlights the responsibility of the next generation: learning to use these tools wisely, understanding their limits, and above all, staying in control of the creative process. It’s a demanding but hopeful vision of the future—where technology and imagination work hand in hand to bring bold new stories to life.
