The Rise of AI Video Tools: Threat or Opportunity?
“Oh no! I’m going to be out of a job!”
That was my first thought when OpenAI’s Sora was announced — AI-generated video that, while still rough around the edges, looked frighteningly realistic. Gone were the days of AI Will Smith eating spaghetti — this was serious.
As a filmmaker, it was hard not to wonder: would people still need us?
Fast forward to 21 May 2025, and Google announces Veo 3 and Flow at Google I/O — two powerful new AI tools capable of generating stylised, polished videos from a few lines of text. The AI video boom was accelerating.
Independent filmmakers are doomed!
Or are we?
We’ve Been Here Before
Remember when smartphones first came on the scene? Some said they’d never replace computers — or real cameras. And yet now they’re one of the most versatile tools we have, especially in content creation.
I regularly use my phone to scout locations or capture quick, high-quality HDR footage for social media. The tools didn’t kill the craft — they enhanced it.
AI video tools like Sora, Veo, and Flow are part of that same evolution. They’re making content creation faster, more accessible, and sometimes even more experimental. And while that might seem threatening, they also open up space for new workflows, new ideas, and a new way of thinking about production.
How We’re Already Using AI in Our Workflow
At Eye of the Bird Films, we’ve been quietly incorporating AI into our post-production process for a while now.
Automated captions in CapCut for social videos
Auto colour correction and colour matching in Final Cut Pro and DaVinci Resolve
Voice isolation and advanced noise reduction to clean up audio
These tools help us speed up repetitive tasks, giving us more time for creativity and storytelling.
We don’t use them to replace filmmaking — we use them to enhance it and ultimately provide a better final product for the client.
What About Tools Like Veo 3, Flow and Sora?
These tools are impressive.
Veo 3 can generate cinematic sequences with realistic lighting, motion blur, and even an understanding of camera angles — all from a text prompt.
Flow helps creators collaborate and generate video ideas more easily.
Sora is arguably the most talked-about of the bunch — its realism from short prompts is a huge leap forward in text-to-video generation.
The implications for advertising, explainer videos, or pitch mock-ups are massive.
But here's the thing:
They still lack intent.
They can’t visit a business, understand its people, interpret the subtle cues of a brand, or capture a real-world moment that resonates emotionally.
And while these tools are becoming more accessible, having access isn’t the same as knowing how to use them effectively.
Anyone can generate content — but crafting content that truly connects, aligns with business goals, and tells a compelling story still requires the insight, experience, and creative direction that production companies like ours bring to the table.
Final Thoughts
AI tools are here to stay — and are already changing how we make video — but they’re just that: tools.
There’s no substitute for video that’s purpose-built, beautifully shot, and rooted in real stories.
Because while AI can generate content, it can’t:
build trust
understand your brand
bring the human touch that turns content into connection
That’s where real filmmakers still shine.
Let’s Talk
If you’re looking for video content that truly reflects your brand and connects with your audience, let’s chat about how Eye of the Bird Films can bring your vision to life.
