A 'Divergent' producer wants to use AI to make 30 new projects in the next 4 years
Mar 04, 2025 - qz.com
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.
