Netflix acquires Ben Affleck’s AI startup InterPositive to streamline film production workflows

1. Acquisition Details

Netflix has announced the acquisition of InterPositive, an artificial intelligence startup founded by Ben Affleck in 2022. As part of the agreement, all 16 members of the startup’s engineering and research team will join Netflix. Additionally, Affleck will take on a new role at the streaming company as a senior adviser.

2. Technology and Production Focus

InterPositive specializes in AI tools designed specifically for film and television production. Unlike generative AI models that create visual content from text, the company’s technology focuses on processing raw footage, or "dailies," to assist in post-production tasks. These tools are intended to streamline processes such as color correction, shot reframing, and the removal of visual elements like stunt wires. According to Affleck, the models are trained on individual projects to ensure they remain consistent with a director’s specific vision and the technical language used on set.

3. Strategic Goals

Affleck stated that he founded the company to address a lack of effective production tools and to protect human creativity within the industry. He noted that the technology is intended to handle technical, logistical tasks, allowing actors and filmmakers to focus more on their performances and creative goals. While Netflix has not yet provided a timeline for integrating this technology into its internal projects, the acquisition reflects the streamer's ongoing interest in utilizing AI to enhance production workflows.