Grimes Joins Theater-Bound AI Film

Grimes, whose name is Claire Boucher, has a brief role in Gods Don’t Give Gifts, a nearly two-hour science-fiction film scheduled to open in theaters on December 4. The project is being promoted as the first AI-made feature to receive a theatrical release and is produced by the studio Fable. Zack London, who directs as Gossip Goblin, describes it as a post-apocalyptic story about humanity’s relationship with technology.

Boucher plays Zaynith Alda, an aristocrat who seeks an illegal experience that allows people to inhabit alternate realities. The character was part of the script before Boucher joined, but London and co-writer Jacob Batchelor reshaped the role around her. Boucher helped develop Alda’s appearance, including a mechanical-style mask, and recorded her lines remotely with the filmmakers and crew.

London said he contacted Boucher after she interacted with his online videos. Her representative said she supports independent artists using new creative tools, and was impressed by the film’s large team and its involvement and compensation of artists, actors and musicians. London said Boucher licensed her likeness for free and declined payment, asking that the money go toward the film and its other performers.

The film also features YouTuber Mike Majlak. Fable has held screenings in New York and Los Angeles and is seeking consideration for the Academy Awards’ animated feature category. The studio has also promoted the movie with a Times Square campaign featuring Boucher’s appearance.