The presence of artificial intelligence (AI) in our lives is undeniable, yet the discourse surrounding its appropriate and inappropriate applications remains contentious, particularly within the entertainment sector. As reported by the Wall Street Journal (via Deadline), Disney has explored ambitious possibilities for leveraging AI across various forthcoming projects, including the much-anticipated Tron: Ares and the live-action adaptation of Moana.

According to insights from WSJ sources, Disney executives “pitched the innovative concept of integrating AI into one of the characters in the sequel to the iconic 1980s film Tron as a cutting-edge marketing strategy.” This character was envisioned to be a companion to Kevin Flynn (played by Jeff Bridges), but the project was ultimately shelved due to concerns that “the company could face detrimental publicity.”

The film Tron: Ares features Jared Leto portraying Ares, a highly advanced Program that transcends the digital realm to embark on a perilous mission, marking humanity’s inaugural encounter with AI entities. Besides Leto, the film boasts a stellar cast including Evan Peters, Greta Lee, Jodie Turner-Smith, Gillian Anderson, Cameron Monaghan, Sarah Desjardins, Hasan Minhaj, Arturo Castro, and the returning Jeff Bridges as Kevin Flynn. Audiences can anticipate the film’s release in theaters on October 10.

Regarding the live-action rendition of Moana, Disney collaborated with Metaphysic, a pioneering AI company, to produce deepfake technology that would allow them to superimpose Dwayne Johnson’s face onto a body double for several scenes within the film. The plan involved Tanoi Reed, Johnson’s cousin and long-term stunt double, performing the action sequences, with Johnson’s likeness digitally added later. However, the studio ultimately discarded this approach, not due to any artistic or ethical dilemmas, but because they were “concerned that they couldn’t secure ownership over all film elements if AI-generated content was involved.” Consequently, discussions between Disney and Metaphysic fell through, leading to the abandonment of the existing footage.

The live-action Moana is anticipated to mirror the plot of the original animated film, which tells the inspiring tale of a determined village chief’s daughter who embarks on an adventurous quest to locate Maui, a legendary demigod. Thomas Kail, known for his work on Hamilton, is directing this adaptation, which features Catherine Laga’aia as Moana, Dwayne Johnson as Maui, Frankie Adams as Sina, John Tui as Chef Tui, and Rena Owen as Gramma Tala. The film is scheduled to hit theaters on July 10, 2026.