AI and Film Subtitling: From Film Reels to Automated Solutions

Click to enlarge
System Administrator and Entrepreneur
From projectionist at Bíó Paradís to tech entrepreneur
Gunnar began his career as a projectionist and experienced firsthand the revolution when cinemas moved from traditional film to digital screenings (DCP – Digital Cinema Package). This change required new knowledge of computers and networks and sparked his interest in the technology behind the scenes.
This interest led him to found the company Sinilab, which specializes in creating screening packages for films and television shows. A large part of that work is subtitling, where accuracy and contextual understanding are paramount.
The challenges of artificial intelligence in Icelandic subtitling
Although artificial intelligence can translate text between languages at lightning speed, the process is more complex than many think, especially when it comes to Icelandic. In our conversation, Gunnar described his experiments with using AI to translate films and pointed out several key challenges:
Security and Open Source: Why Gunnar works offline
Gunnar explained how solutions that run without an internet connection ensure that sensitive data does not leak. This is a fundamental principle when collaborating with producers and demonstrates a responsible approach to using technology where privacy and intellectual property rights are at stake.
Main points from the episode
Quotes from Gunnar
"The translation itself was perfectly fine... but it just didn't fit with what was happening in the movie... the context needs to be translated too."
Conclusion
My interview with Gunnar Ásgeirsson provided a unique insight into the practical applications and challenges of artificial intelligence in creative industries. It shows that although the technology is powerful, it can never fully replace human expertise, context, and responsibility. His story is a reminder of the importance of being curious, adaptable, and aware of the ethical aspects of technology.

A conversation with master mason Smári Sigurðsson about craftsmanship, responsibility, and life before the digital age. How Deep Work and Stoic philosophy are learned not from books, but by watching a master work and handing him the right tools at the right time.

Is Icelandic getting lost in translation in the digital age? In the latest episode of Temjum tæknina, I speak with Lilja Dögg Jónsdóttir, CEO of Almannaróm. We dive into the state of the language in the age of AI and discuss how we can ensure Icelandic remains viable in the technological society of the future, rather than ending up as museum relics.

Is artificial intelligence merely technology, or is it a reflection of ourselves? In this episode, I am joined by Dr. Roberto Buccola and philosopher Giorgio Baruchello. We discuss the intersection of technology, psychology, and mythology, exploring the contrasting cultural worlds of Iceland and Sicily as a metaphor for how we approach the unconscious. Photo taken by me in Palazzo Adriano in August, no AI....