Dave Clark Launches AI Film Studio with Backing from Industry Giants

Generative AI pioneer Dave Clark has officially launched Promise, a cutting-edge film studio designed to leverage artificial intelligence in storytelling. The studio, co-founded with Fullscreen CEO George Strompolos and former YouTube executive Jamie Byrne, aims to produce films, series, and other media using generative AI alongside traditional creative methods.

The announcement, made on November 19, follows Clark’s recent participation in IndieWire’s Future of Filmmaking Summit, where he predicted the immediate impact of AI on filmmaking, particularly in pre-visualization. “I think we’re there today,” he remarked—and his new venture proves it.

Backed by Industry Titans

Promise is launching with a funding round led by Peter Chernin of The North Road Company and Andrew Chen of venture capital firm Andreessen Horowitz (a16z). While financial details remain undisclosed, the involvement of these high-profile investors signals strong confidence in the studio’s vision.

• George Strompolos: Known for shaping the creator economy with Fullscreen, Strompolos will serve as Promise’s CEO.

• Jamie Byrne: As a former YouTube content executive, Byme played a pivotal role in YouTube’s early growth. Byrne will take on the roles of President and COO.

• Dave Clark: As Chief Creative Officer, Clark will oversee creative innovation at the studio.

A New Era of AI-Enhanced Storytelling

Promise plans to combine the artistry of traditional filmmaking with cutting-edge generative AI. At the heart of this initiative is MUSE, proprietary software designed to streamline production workflows and foster collaboration among creative teams by integrating GenAI into the production workflow.

“We’re investing in a new class of Gen AI talent who blend traditional filmmaking chops with cutting-edge technical expertise, setting a new standard for high-quality storytelling enabled by AI” Strompolos explained. “This is a transformational moment in entertainment.”

Clark further elaborated on the studio’s mission: “Gen AI filmmaking is a creative process that combines the expertise of skilled artists, hybrid workflows, and a collaborative production environment. Our goal is to cultivate a space where storytellers from all backgrounds can explore bold ideas, take risks, and push the boundaries of storytelling.”

Promise also aims to work closely with writers, directors, visual effects artists, and other creatives to ensure that each project retains its unique vision while exploring the boundaries of AI-driven storytelling.

Bold Partnerships and Vision

Promise’s vision extends beyond AI technology, focusing on empowering creatives and rights-holders. Byrne emphasized the studio’s commitment to championing generative AI artists and forming collaborations with a wide range of stakeholders in the entertainment industry.

Peter Chernin praised the initiative, stating, “This team understands that prioritizing artists and creatives is the only approach as we begin to apply generative AI into the creative process, and Promise has the most inventive and user-friendly model we have seen.”

Andrew Chen of a16z echoed the sentiment: “Generative AI is transforming creativity and Promise is at the forefront of enabling the next generation of creators and storytellers. Our investment reflects our confidence in their approach to integrating technology with the craft of storytelling.”

Building on Success

Clark’s own generative AI work, including the viral short Battalion, serves as a testament to the potential of this new creative medium. The film, which highlights the story of the only Black soldiers to land on Normandy beaches during D-Day, was an independent test case for longer AI-assisted projects.

“It’s not about replacing; it’s about augmenting us as filmmakers and giving us a superpower to really show our vision,” Clark said during the IndieWire panel.

In addition to his creative projects, Clark has also been a mentor and advisor to five AI filmmakers through the TCL Film Machine program, helping to nurture emerging talent and shape the next generation of storytellers in this innovative field.

Looking Ahead

Promise Studio is poised to become a leader in the integration of generative AI with traditional filmmaking. While no specific projects were announced during the launch, the studio is actively engaging with Hollywood talent, generative AI artists, and rights-holders to develop an ambitious slate of films and series.

As Clark and his co-founders push forward, their work has the potential to redefine how stories are told, making the creative process more inclusive, efficient, and innovative.

You can watch my interview with Dave Clark to hear his insights on the future of generative AI in filmmaking.

Editor’s Note: This article was created by Alicia Shapiro, CMO of AiNews.com, with writing, image, and idea-generation support from ChatGPT, an AI assistant. However, the final perspective and editorial choices are solely Alicia Shapiro’s. Special thanks to ChatGPT for assistance with research and editorial support in crafting this article.