Berlin, 25 June 2025 - The actors' union BFFS and the streaming giant Netflix have agreed on binding rules for the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in film and dubbing productions. This is the first time that a clear legal framework for the use of AI by an international streaming provider has been created in Germany.

The two agreements extend the existing Joint Remuneration Rules (JRR) and define how AI may be used in future, taking into account personal rights and copyrights. The aim is to achieve a fair balance between technological innovation and creative control.

What is regulated?

The contracts cover three central AI scenarios:

• Digital processingWhen AI subsequently changes an actor's performance - such as facial expressions, speech or action.

• Digital replicaWhen the voice or appearance of a real person is reproduced by AI.

• Digital mixingWhen AI generates synthetic actors or voices based on several real models.

In all cases, use is only permitted with the express written consent of the actors concerned.

"An important signal"

"Netflix and the BFFS show that the use of AI does not have to be chaotic or threatening - but can be organised in a legally clean and cooperative manner," explains BFFS legal counsel Bernhard F. Störkmann.

Board member Dr Till Völger sees the contracts as a model for the entire industry, especially in the voice and dubbing sector. Heinrich Schafmeister, authorised representative of the BFFS, also emphasises: "We no longer have to be afraid of being digitally changed or replaced without consent."

Netflix and the BFFS broke new ground back in 2020 with the first joint remuneration rules for filmmakers. The new AI agreements build on this - and once again set an exclamation mark in the debate on technology and creativity.