AI is assumed to replace the filmmaker, crew, and budget behind an ad film. In reality, it has only replaced the camera, and the industry is figuring out how to price, staff, or define everything still standing behind the screen

While not competing directly with global giants like Netflix and Prime Video, these platforms are drawing
revenue from local brands and SMEs targeting language-specific communities.

A24 and Google have struck an AI research partnership that will see the independent studio work with Google’s DeepMind unit to develop new AI-powered technologies for filmmakers

Brands and AI leaders at Cannes Lions 2026 said generative AI is enabling more campaigns and personalised stories, while keeping creative talent at the centre of the process

This editorial is based on “Unleash anime spirits: India must tap the fast-growing global animation market as part of its orange economy push” published in the Economic Times on 19/06/2026. The article emphasises that India must leverage the global animation and AVGC sectors to transition from a low-wage back-end service provider into an intellectual property powerhouse that captures high-value commercial revenues.

Recent AI model restrictions by the US government signal a new era of uncertainty, impacting global tech development. India faces a critical juncture, needing to bolster sovereign AI capabilities while remaining integrated with international ecosystems. This requires accelerated development of indigenous models and domestic compute infrastructure, balancing self-reliance with participation in the global AI landscape to secure its strategic future.

India must not depend on foreign AI models, as US export controls demonstrate potential access denial. Past reliance on external tech, like nuclear programs, led to self-sufficiency. For AI, India needs a continuity doctrine, fostering multiple research labs and institutions, not just symbolic wins. Learning from Singapore's biotech success, building foundational capabilities now is crucial to avoid perpetual import reliance and secure future agency.

“Toy Story 5” ruled over the box office with $160 million from 4,425 North America theaters, landing on the higher end of expectations while securing the biggest domestic debut of the year over Universal’s “Super Mario Galaxy Movie” ($131.7 million).

At APOS 2026, Bharath Ram and Vijay Seshadri outline JioHotstar’s push into AI-driven discovery, scale engineering, and immersive streaming experiences