IndieWire • 8/10/2026 – 8/11/2026

Warner Bros. has partnered with the AI dog podcast “DogPack” to promote its upcoming sci-fi action film “The End of Oak Street,” directed by David Robert Mitchell. The promotional effort features a 90-second podcast clip hosted by an AI golden retriever named Goldie and an AI French bulldog named Frenchie. In this clip, they interview Starbuck, who plays the dog of Anne Hathaway and Ewan McGregor in the film. This collaboration aims to engage audiences in a unique way by utilizing AI-generated content. The promotional clip has sparked significant online backlash over the weekend, with many questioning the decision to use a podcast hosted by AI dogs for marketing purposes. Critics have expressed skepticism about the effectiveness and appropriateness of such an unconventional marketing strategy. The reaction highlights a divide in public perception regarding the use of artificial intelligence in creative and promotional contexts. Despite the backlash, the use of AI in promotional content reflects a growing trend in the entertainment industry to explore innovative ways to connect with audiences. Warner Bros.' choice to employ AI dogs as hosts for the podcast is indicative of a broader movement towards integrating technology in marketing efforts. The film is set to be released soon, and the promotional campaign aims to generate interest and excitement among potential viewers.
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