Netflix confirms use of Generative AI in Sci-Fi series “The Eternaut”

Netflix has officially stepped into the world of generative AI. In its upcoming Argentinian sci-fi series The Eternaut (El Eternauta), the streamer used AI to create a key visual effects sequence involving a building collapse. The move was confirmed by co-CEO Ted Sarandos during a recent earnings call.

According to Netflix, the scene was delivered much faster and at a fraction of the usual cost. Rather than replacing creative roles, Sarandos described AI as a supportive tool that enables filmmakers to do more with less.

The decision helped the team achieve visuals that would’ve otherwise been out of reach for a show with a modest budget. The result? A seamless, cinematic moment that most viewers never realized was AI-generated.

Rysysth insights

This isn’t just a tech flex. From our perspective, Netflix is experimenting with AI in a way that feels measured and intentional. By applying it to one scene in a non-English series, they avoided major risk while testing a new production model.

The takeaway? AI is starting to quietly reshape how stories are made. And this approach, where AI works under the guidance of human creators, may be the formula that gets wide industry buy-in.

What else is happening at Netflix?

• Big earnings, bigger ambitions

Netflix pulled in nearly $11 billion in Q2 revenue and added 8 million new subscribers. With such momentum, expect continued investment in original content and tech-driven production tools.

• AI beyond VFX

The company is already exploring generative AI for internal workflows, advertising, dubbing, and localization. The VFX breakthrough in The Eternaut is just the first visible step.

• Labor tensions still simmering

While Netflix emphasizes that AI is just a tool, some unions remain cautious. The entertainment industry is still figuring out where to draw the line between efficiency and creative job security.

Netflix didn’t just cut costs — it opened the door to a future where smaller shows can punch above their weight visually. At Rysysth, we’re watching closely as AI shifts from behind-the-scenes experiments to on-screen impact.

Until next time.