Collage Wants to Navigate New AI Studios Through the Hollywood System

When OpenAI introduced Sora, its video generation model, in early 2024, agent Dante DeSario from UTA was eager to access the tool. After being denied initially, DeSario used deception to gain information from the seven filmmakers who were granted early access to Sora. This led to the creation of Collage, a management firm aimed at supporting emerging AI studios, co-founded by DeSario and media investor Michael Lambert.

"My goal is to serve as the bridge between Hollywood's established media and these new types of artists and companies," DeSario explained to TheWrap.

Hailing at an important juncture in Hollywood, studios are openly adopting AI use despite a significant portion of the creative community opposing it. Numerous AI-focused studios, such as Asteria, DEFECT, Matriarch, and Secret Level, have emerged, capitalizing on the trend. Collage aims to be a valuable resource for traditional studios seeking to connect with reliable AI partners.

The firm will analyze scripts to determine the most suitable technologies for each scene, ranging from generative AI to traditional methods. In addition to management services, Collage will offer technical partnerships, business development tools, back office infrastructure, and investor access. The company seeks to alleviate the non-creative challenges of running and growing a business, allowing artists to focus on their craft.

Collage also intends to invest strategically in the companies within its network. Founded by Black Bear and Fundamental Films, Collage has been supported by other investors and advisors, including Dennis Miller, Roy Lee, Marty Bowen, Todd Lieberman, Todd Garner, and Barry Porter. The primary goal of Collage is to facilitate connections between Hollywood studios and AI studios, providing the necessary support for these creative companies to flourish.