Streaming service Netflix has paid approximately $587 million for the AI project InterPositive, founded by actor and producer Ben Affleck. The deal was finalized in March, according to a report for the SEC by Variety.
As part of the agreement, Affleck has become a senior advisor to Netflix. The startup's team of 16 developers, researchers, and creative professionals has also joined the company.
“From the invention of moving pictures to the shift to digital solutions, from motion capture to virtual production—technology has evolved alongside the artists who use it,” Affleck stated.
The tools developed by InterPositive, launched in 2022, enable the training of large language models on filmed material and expedite post-production processes such as mixing, lighting adjustments, and adding visual effects.
The startup has contributed to the creation of commercial videos for brands, music videos, and other major video projects.
InterPositive Projects. Source: InterPositive.Netflix Co-CEO Ted Sarandos mentioned that around 300 projects released in 2026 utilized some form of generative AI. He noted that the deal with InterPositive is still in its early stages, but Netflix is already seeing positive effects.
As an example, Sarandos cited the documentary series The American Experiment, stating that the use of AI doubled the speed and reduced the cost of production. He emphasized that Netflix does not aim to replace human labor with generative technologies.
It is worth noting that in May, the organization that hosts the Oscars published updated rules prohibiting the nomination of films that utilized AI in their creation.