Filmmaker Darren Aronofsky has launched a series about the American Revolution that combines artificial intelligence tools with human voice talent. The project, titled “On This Day… 1776,” recreates key moments from America’s founding year.
Todd Spangler reports for Variety that the series is produced by Primordial Soup, the AI studio Aronofsky established in 2024.
The production uses AI capabilities from Google’s DeepMind division alongside traditional filmmaking techniques. Despite the heavy use of artificial intelligence, all characters are voiced by SAG-AFTRA union actors, ensuring human performers remain part of the creative process.
Time Studios has licensed the series for distribution on Time’s YouTube channel throughout 2026. Each episode dramatizes historical events on their 250th anniversaries. The first episode depicts the raising of the Grand Union Flag on Prospect Hill, while the second follows Thomas Paine as Benjamin Franklin encourages him to write “Common Sense.”
“This project is a glimpse at what thoughtful, creative, artist-led use of AI can look like,” says Ben Bitonti, president of Time Studios. He emphasizes the technology expands possibilities rather than replacing craft.
New episodes will release weekly, each aligned with historical anniversaries.
