Promise AI Studio Secures Strategic Investment From Google, Crossbeam, North Road

Promise, a generative AI entertainment studio founded by former YouTube executives George Strompolos and Jamie Byrne alongside filmmaker Dave Clark, has secured a strategic investment and partnership with Google's AI Futures Fund, alongside Michael Ovitz’s Crossbeam Venture Partners and other investors such as Kivu Ventures, Saga Ventures, and Peter Chernin’s The North Road Company. The company, launched in late 2024, aims to develop AI-native storytelling using advanced AI tools integrated into its proprietary production platform called MUSE, collaborating closely with Google's DeepMind and AI teams on technical research and early testing of models like Gemini and Veo. Promise is pioneering a hybrid approach to filmmaking that combines generative AI with traditional artistic methods, exemplified by their upcoming projects including the feature-length film "NinjaPunk" and "Extinction." Investors highlight Promise's innovative approach to redefining cinematic storytelling by inventing new creative tools rather than merely using existing technology. The studio has also expanded its influence by acquiring Curious Refuge, a film school focused on teaching AI filmmaking techniques. This funding round underlines growing confidence in Promise's vision to transform the film industry through AI-enhanced creativity and production workflows.