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AI Meets Latino History: John Leguizamo's Groundbreaking Series Redefines Storytelling
LatinosBuild
October 01, 2024
For this issue of Latinos Build, we're spotlighting the impact Latinos are making in media, and John Leguizamo's new series VOCES American Historia: The Untold History of Latinos is a standout example. The three-part series takes viewers on a powerful journey through Latino history, from ancient empires to modern times, uncovering overlooked stories and contributions.
Innovative Use of AI in Storytelling
What makes American Historia truly groundbreaking is Leguizamo's innovative use of AI. In an interview with PBS, Leguizamo spoke about how he and director Ben DeJesus faced the challenge of visually depicting lesser-known periods of Latino history. Their solution was to turn to generative AI to recreate scenes, characters, and settings from eras with limited historical imagery.
They used AI to generate historically accurate depictions of early Latino and Afro-Caribbean leaders, blending technology and artistry to create a new visual "history book." Even more significantly, by using AI to produce these representations, they're training AI models with accurate data about Latino history and culture, paving the way for better AI-generated content in the future.
Ensuring Historical Accuracy
All AI-generated images were reviewed by top historical experts to ensure authenticity. "Accuracy had to be 100% right," Leguizamo emphasized. In other words, they trained AI tools to create accurate images - that is impact!
Impact on Latino Representation in Media
This use of AI not only redefines documentary storytelling but also sets a new precedent for how technology can elevate underrepresented narratives. It's a must-watch.
By leveraging cutting-edge technology to tell these stories, Leguizamo is not only preserving history but also positioning Latinos at the forefront of media innovation. As American Historia sets new standards for diverse storytelling, it invites viewers to not only learn about Latino history but also to reimagine how technology can amplify underrepresented voices in media.
Quick Fact:
“Despite Latinos making up nearly 20% of the U.S. population and 25% of those under 18, their representation in media remains alarmingly low. The report highlights that in scripted shows, Latinos account for only 9.8% of main cast members, far below their population share. The disparity extends to unscripted shows, where Latinos fill only 5% of host or presenter roles, leaving a representation gap of 75%.” - The 2024 LDC U.S. Latinos in Media Report ™
Latino Builder: Jenaro Diaz
Creative Technologist & Entrepeneur
Startup: Minero.io
What advice do you have for anyone launching a business?
Patience!
What made you decide to launch a startup?
I have helped startups for over 15 years, building their MVPS, launching and promoting their products and event helping them fundraise, made us decide to create our own.
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