In response to backlash against episodes updated with AI, Super Mario Bros. Super Show! Currently airing on MeTV, distributor WildBrain has revealed that they are using technology to restore it.
Viewers recently noticed that the 1989 series had been visibly altered using AI-based upscaling, with many criticizing the result as overly slick and lacking the texture and low-budget, hand-crafted charm of the original animation. There was no mention of artificial intelligence in the press materials sent out prior to the broadcast.
In a statement provided to cartoon beer After the initial report, a WildBrain spokesperson revealed that the company is using a “human-driven, AI-assisted process” to “scale up the overall presentation by increasing resolution, improving color quality, and making other adjustments,” adding that the company is “actively reviewing the episode and working to fix any issues that arise.”
Read the full WildBrain statement below.
From time to time, as new technology emerges, we aim to upgrade the viewing experience for classic content in our library, especially for older series. This includes considering how to enhance the library through human-driven, AI-assisted processes. This increases resolution, improves color quality, and makes other adjustments that scale up the entire presentation. This process is not performed by WildBrain’s studio, but rather is overseen by the experts who manage the classic content in the library.
Similar to aspects of traditional film restoration, this process is designed to ensure that our content is delivered to audiences for years to come. Overall, the results were very positive. However, because some shows were created decades ago, the original source material doesn’t always contain enough information for AI tools to properly interpret it. In some cases, visible distortions may occur. We actively review episodes and work to fix any issues that arise.
WildBrain remains committed to providing the best viewing experience that respects the integrity of the original content so that today’s viewers can continue to enjoy these shows.
