DISPATCHES - Channel 4
Dispatches: Will AI Take My Job?
Dispatches: Will AI Take My Job? is an investigative documentary that explores the growing impact of AI on employment and whether machines could eventually replace millions of British workers. The programme examines how rapidly advancing AI technology is transforming both traditional professions and creative industries.
The team conducted an experiment in which four professionals - a GP, a trainee solicitor, a fashion photographer and a composer all compete against AI counterparts to complete identical tasks. Through these comparisons, the programme investigated the strengths and weaknesses of current AI systems, questioning whether it can match human expertise, creativity, judgement and decision-making. It also considers the attraction of AI to employers seeking faster and cheaper ways to complete work.
The film was named by The Guardian newspaper as one of the ‘Top 100 TV moments of all time’.
Jonathan Stow was a Producer / Director on the documentary.
Exec produced by Nick Parnes and Martin Turner for Kalel Productions for Channel 4.
Produced and Directed by Joanna Burge.
Dispatches: Can AI Steal your VOTE?
Presented by journalist Cathy Newman (Channel 4 News, Sky News) - the programme explored how AI, deepfakes and misleading political content could influence voters’ opinions and potentially affect the outcome of democratic elections.
The documentary followed an experiment involving 12 British households made up of undecided voters ahead of the 2024 UK General Election. Participants are shown political content created using AI, including fabricated videos and misleading claims designed to influence their political views. Presented in formats resembling everyday social media posts, the content tests whether people can distinguish between genuine political information and artificially generated disinformation.
The investigation highlighted how convincing AI-generated content can be, particularly when it appears to come from trusted political figures or resembles legitimate news. It raises concerns about the speed at which false information can spread online and the potential for political campaigns or other actors to exploit AI technology to manipulate public opinion.
Ultimately, we questioned whether voters can make informed democratic choices when the information they encounter may be deliberately deceptive. It served as a warning about the growing challenges AI presents to political transparency, media literacy and the integrity of elections.
Jonathan Stow was a Producer /Director on the documentary.
Exec produced by Nick Parnes, Martin Turner and Sandy Smith for Kalel Productions for Channel 4.
Produced and Directed by Claire Burnett.
