WIRED

Mike Rianda is an innovative filmmaker known for his critically acclaimed debut feature, *The Mitchells vs. the Machines*. This sci-fi comedy centers around a quirky family struggling against an AI uprising instigated by a Silicon Valley tech giant.

Released on Netflix in 2021, the film quickly became the platform’s most-watched animated feature, resonating deeply with themes of resistance against technology. Rianda’s work reflects broader industry concerns as animators grapple with the implications of AI on creative jobs. As a member of the Animation Guild, he is actively involved in negotiations to protect workers' rights amid fears of AI replacing traditional roles in animation.

The ongoing conversation highlights the delicate balance between technological advancement and preserving human creativity in the animation sector. Rianda's commitment to showcasing the human experience against the backdrop of technological challenges continues to shape the landscape of animated storytelling, making his work both timely and impactful in today’s digital age