Full Breakdown
Google DeepMind and A24 Announce $75 Million AI Research Partnership
6/23/2026, 12:56:43 AM
Partnership Overview
Google DeepMind is investing roughly $75 million in independent studio A24 for a multiyear research collaboration. The deal does not grant Google access to A24’s film library, nor does it involve an IP or production agreement. DeepMind researchers will work alongside A24 filmmakers to create AI-assisted workflows, starting with a storyboard-generation tool.
Context and Rationale
The agreement follows recent AI-related moves in Hollywood, such as Disney’s brief OpenAI pact, Lionsgate’s Runway AI work, and Netflix’s purchase of InterPositive. A24, known for “Lady Bird,” “Moonlight,” and the $300 million hit “Backrooms,” serves as a high-profile test case for integrating AI into independent filmmaking. The partnership reflects a growing industry shift toward AI-assisted pre-production, as studios seek tools that augment rather than replace creative talent.
Key Participants
Eli Collins (DeepMind VP of Product), Scott Belsky (head of A24 Labs), DeepMind CEO Demis Hassabis, director Kane Parsons, and director Alex Garland (attached to the $175 million Elden Ring adaptation) are the principal figures.
Core Data
The $75 million investment follows A24’s $3.5 billion valuation and recent box-office successes: “Backrooms” $300 million and “Marty Supreme” $200 million. A Pew Research study finds about half of adults under 30 view AI as harmful to society. A24’s revenue has more than doubled in the past two years, supporting its $3.5 billion valuation.
Official Statements
Google said the partnership will “expand what is possible in the future of entertainment” and ensure “the tools of the future are shaped by the creators who use them.” A24 stressed the tools “won’t look anything like the prompted generation type of AI that people feel uncomfortable with” and will preserve creative control.
Criticism
Kane Parsons called generative AI “genuinely harmful” and a symptom of “cultural and economic rot,” warning it threatens artistic integrity.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
All sources cite a $75 million investment, described as “around” that amount, with no disclosed project timeline.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We believe breakthroughs happen when you get technology into the hands of the best minds in the field,” — Eli Collins, Vice President of Product, Google DeepMind
- “won’t look anything like the prompted generation type of AI that people feel uncomfortable with.” — Scott Belsky, A24 partner
- “generative AI feels less like innovation than a symptom of a broader cultural and economic rot,” — Kane Parsons, Director of *Backrooms*
- “The collaboration pairs a world-leading research lab with the industry’s most filmmaker-forward studio to help artists develop new workflows and techniques,” — Google DeepMind press release
Outlook
The first deliverable will be an AI-driven storyboard generator, with later phases targeting pre-production, visual effects and editing, beginning with the Elden Ring adaptation. Industry observers will monitor the collaboration as a potential template for future AI-studio alliances.
