Cris Valenzuela, CEO and cofounder of AI video generation platform Runway, is pushing for Hollywood and the broader creative industries to embrace artificial intelligence not as a threat but as a powerful tool that democratizes filmmaking and content creation. Founded in 2018, Runway allows creators to generate realistic video sequences using AI models based on prompts or reference images, drastically accelerating workflows that once required extensive manual effort.

Valenzuela highlights that Runway is designed to empower more people to tell their stories by lowering the technical and financial barriers traditionally associated with film production. “I grew up in Chile and didn’t have access to expensive cameras or software,” he reflects, noting that AI tools like Runway enable aspiring filmmakers worldwide to bring their visions to life without the prohibitive costs. The company has established partnerships with major studios including Lionsgate and AMC Networks, signaling AI’s growing acceptance in mainstream media.

Despite its successes, Runway faces challenges common across the AI industry—particularly legal battles over the use of copyrighted content in AI training datasets. Valenzuela acknowledges these concerns but clarifies that Runway’s models do not store or replicate existing content; instead, they learn patterns to create entirely new visuals, likening the technology to a camera, a neutral tool dependent on the user’s intent.

Valenzuela stresses that AI is not about replacing creativity but enhancing it, making processes like storyboarding faster and more accessible. He envisions a future where creators can produce more content with greater speed, enabling innovation and quality through volume. “Quantity leads to quality,” he says, citing artists like Picasso who improved through prolific work.

Runway’s research-driven and collaborative culture fuels rapid innovation, balancing product development with exploring new AI capabilities. Valenzuela sees AI as ushering in a more democratized film industry where storytelling is judged on idea merit rather than budget or connections, unlocking voices from around the world.

‍