Full Breakdown
Ex Machina Studios Secures First AI-Driven Theatrical Distribution Deal
8/19/2026, 12:42:31 AM
Deal Overview and Planned Slate
Under the agreement, Mayfair will release Ex Machina’s films on more than 1,500 screens through Galaxy Theatres and additional chains. The studio plans to debut four projects in 2027—Roger Avary’s *Paradise Lost* (scheduled for Easter 2027) and Alex Proyas’ *Heaven* (summer 2027) are first in line—followed by roughly six titles each subsequent year. Both films are currently casting and slated to begin production soon, with AI tools expected to aid their extensive world-building. Ex Machina also operates an international sales arm via a partnership with Daniel Baur’s K5 International and intends to pursue selective third-party acquisitions.
Key Executives Behind the Partnership
- Frank Rimkus – Chairman, National Association of Theatre Owners (California/Nevada) and co-leader of Mayfair Media Group.
- Rafe Cohen – Co-leader of Mayfair Media Group, Galaxy Theatres executive.
- John Hegeman – Veteran marketing executive (formerly Orion Pictures, Blumhouse Tilt, Lionsgate, Artisan Entertainment, Fox Atomic).
- Scott Kennedy – Founder, Falling Forward Films, part of the Mayfair executive team.
- Marco Weber – Co-founder and CEO of Ex Machina Studios.
Official Statements from Mayfair and Ex Machina
Weber explained that Ex Machina’s mission is to leverage rapidly evolving technologies to give filmmakers greater creative control while bypassing traditional budgetary constraints.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We’re excited to partner with Ex Machina Studios as they bring a fresh and innovative approach to the art of filmmaking,” — Mayfair Media Group’s Rimkus
- “Marco and the Ex Machina team are creating an amazing and diverse slate of epic theatrical adventures,” — John Hegeman, veteran marketing executive
- “The idea behind Ex Machina Studios, from the beginning, was to take advantage of rapidly evolving technologies while working with outstanding filmmakers to realize their vision and create original IP without traditional budgetary restrictions or green-light committees,” — Ex Machina’s Marco Weber, co-founder and CEO
