17+ Cartoons Come to Life With Artificial Intelligence Technology

Moana — Disney’s Moana

Moana, the Polynesian beauty from the movie of the same name, is striking in both physical appearance and her strong will and temperament. Moana, after all, looks to be her peoples hero and so the animators needed to create an appearance that would emphasize her powerful traits, and the result is nothing short of stunning. One would think that replicating such a creation in human form would be a serious challenge, but Hidreley found the exact match, complete with strong cheekbones, huge eyes, and a devilish smile.

Pepa Madrigal — Encanto

Looking for a sunny day, call Pepa; looking for a bit of clouds, call Pepa; prefer some rain, call Pepa. Pepa Madrigal had the special power to control the weather on her whim, which would be a great conversation starter at parties. She could also have a bit of a temper, so best to watch your step. And such a girl is deserving of an expressive face to match her expressive powers, with big eyes, a bright complexion, and a focused appearance. The AI added all of this, but also gave her a bit of a “Don’t mess with me look.”

Princess Tiana — The Princess and the Frog

You would be hard pressed to find as good a cook in the town of New Orleans as Tiana. This culinary talent wanted nothing more than to have a restaurant in New Orleans that she could call her own. Tiana was also on the hunt for that elusive prince. For such a thoughtful and determined character, the animators employed a brilliant smile, high cheekbones, and dazzling eyes to bring her to life. The AI went a step further, making her even more gorgeous and radiant than the original.

Lilo Pelekai — Lilo & Stitch

Out of all the AI generated images on this list, Lilo Pelekai might just be the most accurate and adorable. As a result of being an orphan, this little girl should rightfully don a grumpy scowl, but this is furthest from the truth. Lilo’s expression radiates happiness and optimism. With her wide eyes, tiny dimples, and gentle smile, Lilo Pelekai looks like she could conquer the world with pure joy. And the AI version is every bit as lovable.

Peter Pan — Disney’s Peter Pan

Peter Pan is best known as that quirky little character that managed to fly all over the movie screen as he fought off those evil pirates. The original animators needed to design an image that would portray the expressive and energetic Peter Pan; they were very successful in their efforts. With huge eyes protected by giant red eyebrows that reached to the sky, Peter was unmistakable. There could be no actual human possessing such over the top features, that is until Hidreley and his AI showed up to bring Mr. Pan to life.

Ned Flanders — The Simpsons

Ned Flanders is unmistakable as the paranoid, bible thumping landlord to the Simpson family. For Ned, or simply “Flanders” as he is often called, any questioning of the tenets of the “good book” will be met with shock and disbelief. Flanders would just as soon disown his entire family than permit any derision of the bible. With his brushed back hair, side burns, oversized mustache and googly eyes, coming up with a human doppelganger really wasn’t all that difficult for Hidreley and his AI software.

Ariel — The Little Mermaid

Whether she’s swimming around with singing crabs, or dreaming about landing her handsome prince, Ariel was as beautiful and vivacious as she was fun and energetic. This was not an easy task for even the best AI software to duplicate. But, once again, Hidreley achieved giving his girl fiery red hair, big eyes, and adorable freckles. With such a stunner, there isn’t a prince anywhere in the underwater kingdom that would be able to pass her up.

Lisa Simpson — The Simpsons

Can you think of anyone more qualified to torment Bart Simpson than his sister Lisa? At just eight years old, Lisa is a giant in the family and ahead of her time. She loves to do her own thing regardless of any flack she may get. She also moves through the world fearlessly. Her animation character appears bright and full of wonder, with giant eyes and a big, wide smile. While the AI version is a good likeness, the eyes might be a bit too big for a human. With that said, she does look eternally hopeful and comfortable in her own skin.