A 'Divergent' producer wants to use AI to make 30 new projects in the next 4 years

Pouya Shahbazian, known for producing the _Divergent_ film franchise, has launched Staircase Studios AI, a production company focused on using AI to streamline filmmaking and reduce costs. The studio plans to produce around 30 projects over the next three to four years, each with a budget under $500,000. It has acquired rights to nearly 20 scripts and intellectual properties, including a film adaptation of Patrick Lee's novel _Wild Night_ and a TV series from Gabe Rotter. Their debut feature film, _The Woman With Red Hair_, directed by Brett Stuart, features original designs by Oscar-nominated artist Teddy Newton and additional artwork by Emmy Award-winning animator Alfred Gimeno.

Staircase Studios AI has developed a proprietary AI-powered workflow called ForwardMotion and emphasizes collaboration with union members, ensuring industry-standard pay for actors. The company is backed by Kenneth Lerer, co-founder of The Huffington Post, and aims to pair ethical AI usage with overlooked stories from talented writers and directors. This move follows a trend in the industry, with other studios like Lionsgate also exploring AI in film production.

Key takeaways

Pouya Shahbazian has launched Staircase Studios AI to streamline filmmaking using AI.
The studio plans to produce around 30 projects with budgets under $500,000 over the next three to four years.
Staircase Studios AI has acquired rights to nearly 20 scripts and several intellectual properties, including a film adaptation of Patrick Lee's novel _Wild Night_.
The studio has developed a proprietary AI-powered workflow called ForwardMotion and emphasizes collaboration with union members.

A 'Divergent' producer wants to use AI to make 30 new projects in the next 4 years

Key takeaways

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