Streaming giant Netflix is reportedly set to acquire an artificial intelligence filmmaking startup founded by actor and filmmaker Ben Affleck in a deal that could be worth up to $600 million.
The company, InterPositive, develops advanced tools designed to help filmmakers modify and enhance footage using artificial intelligence. The acquisition marks one of the largest AI deals ever made by a Hollywood studio and signals Netflix’s growing push into AI-driven production technology.
Although the final purchase price is believed to be lower than the headline figure, sources familiar with the deal say additional payouts could increase the total value if the company meets certain performance targets.
Why Netflix wants AI in filmmaking
The acquisition is part of Netflix’s strategy to accelerate the use of artificial intelligence in film and television production.
InterPositive’s technology allows filmmakers to edit existing footage more efficiently, making adjustments to backgrounds, removing unwanted objects, or refining visual elements after filming.
Renowned director David Fincher has already used the company’s tools on an upcoming film starring Brad Pitt, highlighting the growing role of AI-assisted production in Hollywood.
Netflix believes the technology could help reduce production costs while improving visual quality, a key advantage as streaming platforms compete to produce high-end content at scale.
Hollywood’s growing AI race
The move also reflects a broader trend across the entertainment industry as studios explore artificial intelligence.
Major players are already experimenting with AI tools:
- Amazon has created an internal AI team to support its film and television production.
- The Walt Disney Company recently entered a partnership with OpenAI to explore AI-powered creative tools.
For Netflix, acquiring InterPositive could help the company build in-house AI capabilities instead of relying on external technology providers.
Concerns from Hollywood workers
While studios see potential efficiency gains, the rise of AI in filmmaking has raised concerns among actors, writers, and production crews.
Industry professionals worry that studios may use AI tools to reduce jobs or automate parts of the creative process. Others are concerned that AI models could be trained using films and creative work without proper compensation for creators.
InterPositive’s approach attempts to address those concerns.
According to Affleck, the software only trains on footage that filmmakers provide, meaning it does not scrape films or generate content without permission.
“A director needs to shoot the movie first,” Affleck explained in a video released by Netflix. “Then the software can help refine and improve that footage.”
A new chapter for AI filmmaking
Affleck quietly launched InterPositive with backing from investment firm RedBird Capital Partners. After developing the technology privately for several years, the company began seeking investment and partnerships in 2025.
Those discussions eventually led to Netflix deciding to acquire the startup as part of its long-term production technology strategy.
The deal is particularly notable because Netflix historically avoided large acquisitions, choosing instead to build technology internally. However, with the streaming industry becoming increasingly competitive, the company appears ready to invest heavily in AI innovation.
Affleck believes the technology represents a natural evolution in filmmaking.
“The filmmaking process has always been one long technological progression,” he said. “We’ve always tried to make films feel more realistic and more honest. InterPositive is another step in that journey.”
What it means for the future of streaming
If successful, the acquisition could reshape how films and TV series are produced for streaming platforms.
AI-assisted filmmaking could allow studios to:
- Reduce expensive reshoots
- Improve visual effects more efficiently
- Speed up post-production workflows
- Experiment with new creative tools
For Netflix, integrating AI into production could help maintain its competitive edge as the global streaming industry continues to expand.
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