By Matt R. Allen
The debate over the role of artificial intelligence in Hollywood has just gotten a major new framework. Netflix, the world’s leading streaming service, has released a comprehensive set of guidelines governing the use of Generative AI (GenAI) in its content production.
These new rules are mandatory for all filmmaking partners, production companies, and VFX vendors working on Netflix projects. They represent a significant step in defining how AI can be used as a tool while rigorously protecting copyright, data privacy, and the rights of human talent.
At StarBuzzDaily, we’ve analyzed the full policy and have turned these complex guidelines into a single, easy-to-understand comic-book-style infographic. It’s the perfect quick-reference guide for anyone in the industry, and it’s available for free download as a PDF below.
“Creative Aid, Strict Guardrails”: The Core Philosophy
The overarching theme of Netflix’s policy is clear: AI is permitted as a “creative aid,” but its use is hedged by strict “guardrails.” The goal is to foster innovation without compromising legal and ethical standards.
Our exclusive infographic breaks down the policy into five key sections, making it easy to grasp at a glance:
1. The 5 Core Guiding Principles (The Code)
Every partner must adhere to these fundamental rules, which include an absolute ban on copyright infringement, strict data security protocols to protect Netflix’s intellectual property, and a mandate for human oversight on all final content. Crucially, it emphasizes “Respect for Talent,” forbidding the replacement of human performances without consent.
2. High Risk: Requires Written Approval (The Red Zone)
This section clearly identifies actions that are off-limits without explicit permission from Netflix. This includes using AI for any final deliverables that appear on-screen, generating key creative elements like main characters, creating “digital replicas” of actors’ voices or likenesses, and feeding sensitive data like scripts into AI models.
3. Low Risk: Generally Allowed (The Green Zone)
Not all AI use is restricted. The policy defines a “green zone” for low-risk activities like using AI for ideation, creating mood boards, or generating rough, temporary drafts. However, even in these cases, disclosure to Netflix is still mandatory.
4. Transparency & Trust Netflix is prioritizing trust with both its partners and its audience.
The guidelines mandate that partners must inform their Netflix contact of any intended use of GenAI. It also explicitly bans the creation of misleading content, such as fake documentary footage, to maintain audience trust.
5. Talent & Union Protections (The Shield)
Finally, the policy serves as a “shield” for human creators. It reinforces that consent is mandatory for creating digital replicas and states unequivocally that AI cannot be used to bypass union contracts with organizations like SAG-AFTRA and the WGA.
Download this graphic in PDF below if you want your own copy!