Artificial intelligence is rapidly emerging as a pivotal strategic factor in the future of film production. Addressing this technological shift could prove decisive to both the financial sustainability and creative evolution of the industry. In response, Beta Film has announced the launch of a new AI-focused start-up, Chapter41, in partnership with Hannes Jakobsen, Dominik Böhm, and Lars Stark. Headquartered in Berlin, Chapter41 will focus on three primary areas: developing AI-powered tools and workflows for creative use; providing training and consulting services for broadcasters, creative professionals, and media companies; and producing AI-generated moving images, including historical reenactments, special effects, and animation.
Moritz von Kruedener, Managing Director at Beta Film, emphasized the operational focus behind the initiative: “The core idea of the partnership with Hannes, Dominik, and Lars is to rethink the production processes within the Beta Group and make them more efficient utilizing AI. Within Chapter41, AI tools are not created in a vacuum, but rather always in connection with specific productions, be it from DRIVE beta or together with the production companies belonging to Beta Group. To achieve this, Chapter41 relies on a lean, flexible structure in order to keep pace with the momentum of AI development.”
According to Chapter41 Managing Director Hannes Jakobsen, the start-up aims to be fully integrated into the rapidly developing creative AI space: “Chapter41 is supposed to be part of the burgeoning creative AI ecosystem. Together with our partners, we are creating a space for working on making generative AI usable and valuable in moving image production with ambition and curiosity. We want to push creative boundaries and ensure real added value for our partners. We are open for business and are looking forward to sharing first details soon.”
With this launch, Beta Film signals a strategic commitment to embedding AI innovation at the core of its production infrastructure—balancing efficiency with artistic potential in a rapidly evolving media landscape.