AI Auteur Josh Kerrigan Builds Cult Series Neural Viz Amid Hollywood Interest

Josh Kerrigan, the creator behind the AI‑driven series Neural Viz, has turned a decade of traditional film work into a pioneering use of generative AI tools. By writing scripts, storyboarding each shot and then using image generators, motion‑capture software and voice synthesis, he produces a distinctive, documentary‑style sci‑fi comedy that has attracted a devoted online following and attention from major studios. Kerrigan continues to experiment with new AI applications while planning non‑AI projects and navigating the evolving relationship between creators and the film industry.

Background and Early Career

Kerrigan grew up outside Wichita Falls, Texas, and later studied film before moving to Los Angeles. He worked a series of day jobs in the entertainment industry, including roles as a barista, an assistant to a director and a producer of promotional videos for major films. He also formed a sketch group that produced weekly videos for an online comedy platform. Despite this experience, he struggled to achieve lasting traction in the traditional Hollywood pipeline.

Embracing Generative AI

In the early 2020s Kerrigan began experimenting with 3D modeling software and quickly discovered a set of new generative AI applications. He found that image generators excelled at creating static visuals, while newer video tools could animate characters based on prompts. By combining tools for image generation, voice synthesis, and motion‑capture, he was able to produce entire episodes without a physical set or cast. He refined his workflow by writing full scripts, storyboarding each shot, creating stills with image generators, and then mapping motion capture onto the digital characters.

The Neural Viz Universe

The result is the Neural Viz channel, which presents a mock‑documentary world called the Monoverse populated by alien “glurons” who discuss human history in a deadpan style. The series began with a web series that parodied investigative shows and expanded into spinoffs that mimic police reality shows and paranormal investigations. Kerrigan performs all character voices himself, using facial‑motion capture to map his own expressions onto the alien avatars. The series embraces the quirks and occasional glitches of AI tools, turning them into comedic elements that enrich the lore.

Industry Attention and Future Plans

Kerrigan’s work has drawn interest from major studios and producers, leading to offers for in‑house AI projects and collaborations. He declined a studio position in favor of developing an independent television pilot and a short film that will debut at a prominent film festival. The revenue generated from his online videos, combined with the pilot contract, allowed him to leave his day job and focus on creative projects full time. He continues to experiment with the latest AI releases, anticipating how new motion‑capture software will improve his storytelling.

Challenges and Perspectives

While Kerrigan acknowledges criticism that AI could disrupt traditional labor models, he frames the technology as a tool that expands creative independence. He notes that the industry is already integrating AI into workflows, with prominent directors joining AI ventures. Kerrigan stresses the importance of strong storytelling fundamentals—scriptwriting, storyboarding and visual composition—regardless of the tools used. He also expresses concern about the pressure to maintain a rapid production pace and the potential burnout that can accompany constant output.