Google is investing around $75 million in independent movie studio A24 as part of a new artificial intelligence research partnership focused on developing tools for filmmakers.

The investment marks the first time Google has taken an equity stake in a movie studio, expanding its presence in entertainment beyond YouTube.

Under the multiyear partnership, Google DeepMind and A24 will work together on new technologies for film production and distribution.

The companies said the collaboration will span several projects and place DeepMind researchers alongside A24 filmmakers to test and develop new creative workflows.

The deal is nonexclusive and does not give Google access to A24’s film and television library or other studio data.

A24 partner Scott Belsky said the planned tools will focus on preserving creative control and supporting artistic risk taking rather than simply making movies faster or cheaper.

A24 Labs, the studio’s 20 person technology and innovation team, is already developing an application that uses AI to generate storyboards. The early drafts could help filmmakers identify production issues before filming begins.

The companies have not disclosed which films or filmmakers will participate in the partnership or when the first tools will become available.

Google’s investment comes as A24 expands beyond independent film into television, music and theater.

The studio was valued at $3.5 billion during its previous funding round in 2024, when Thrive Capital led an investment in the company.

A24’s revenue has more than doubled over the past two years as the studio has increased production budgets and expanded into new markets.

The company is currently producing a roughly $175 million adaptation of Elden Ring directed by Alex Garland, its most expensive film to date.