Netflix has officially confirmed that it paid approximately $587 million in cash to acquire InterPositive, the filmmaker-focused artificial intelligence startup founded by Ben Affleck, making it one of the largest AI investments by a Hollywood entertainment company. The purchase price was disclosed in the streaming giant’s latest Form 10-Q filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), providing the first official confirmation of the deal’s value.
The filing states that Netflix completed the acquisition in March 2026 for a total purchase price of approximately $587 million. The figure closely matches a Bloomberg report published earlier this year, which suggested the transaction could be worth as much as $600 million for Affleck and the company’s investors, depending on the structure of the payout. While reports had previously estimated the value of the acquisition, Netflix’s SEC filing now establishes the official purchase price.
InterPositive was founded by Affleck in 2022 with a mission that differs from many consumer-focused AI companies. Rather than developing technology to generate scripts, replace actors, or create AI-generated films, the startup focused on building artificial intelligence tools designed to support professional filmmakers throughout the production process. Its software is intended to help with tasks such as visual continuity, editorial consistency, lighting analysis, lens matching, and other production workflows, while leaving creative decisions in the hands of filmmakers.
When the acquisition was announced in March, Netflix emphasized that the company’s approach to artificial intelligence is centered on empowering creators rather than replacing them. Chief Content Officer Bela Bajaria said the streamer views AI as a way to expand creative possibilities for writers, directors, actors, editors, and production crews instead of automating the storytelling process. Chief Technology and Product Officer Elizabeth Stone similarly described the acquisition as part of Netflix’s long-term investment in technology that enhances filmmaking.
Affleck has consistently advocated for a similar philosophy. He has argued that AI should eliminate repetitive production tasks and improve efficiency while preserving the human creativity that lies at the heart of filmmaking. The actor, writer, and director has maintained that technology should serve storytellers rather than attempt to replace them.
The acquisition also deepens Netflix’s relationship with Affleck. Earlier this year, the company signed a first-look agreement with Artists Equity, the production company Affleck co-founded with Matt Damon. Following the acquisition, the InterPositive team joined Netflix, while Affleck continues to serve as a senior advisor on the integration of the company’s technology into the streamer’s production pipeline.
The official disclosure comes as Netflix continues to expand its use of AI-assisted tools across film and television production, particularly in areas such as visual effects, post-production, and production planning. By confirming the $587 million purchase price, Netflix has highlighted both the scale of its investment and its belief that artificial intelligence will play an increasingly important role in the future of filmmaking—provided it remains a tool that supports, rather than replaces, creative talent.
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