EXCLUSIVE: AI film and animation studio Asteria has added filmmaker Paul Trillo as a strategic partner.
In the post, he will lead Asteria’s artist-focused approach to incorporating AI into the creative process.
Asteria owns documentary outfit XTR and FAST channel Documentary+. It recently expanded and rebranded after a previous iteration of the company was known as XTR, as it shifts its attention to AI. The company earlier this year acquired Late Night Labs, a firm launched last spring with an advisory team including Poker Face star Natasha Lyonne and Blue Beetle director Angel Manuel Soto.
Trillo’s work spans short films, music videos, and interactive experiences. It includes the upcoming short film Etherea, as well as The Most Perfect Perfect Person, a film exploring an artist’s agency in the AI era, created in collaboration with music artist Poppy. He produced the award-winning music video for Washed Out’s “The Hardest Part”; the AI-focused Absolve with French musician Jacques filmed at the Louvre; and the video art installation Notes to My Future Self, showcased at Madrid’s Telefonica Foundation. Trillo also has had work at the Sphere Las Vegas, producing Mexico Today and Tomorrow, the final film of Carlos López Estrada’s celebration of Mexican Independence Day.
“What drew me to Asteria is its artist-driven ethos and commitment to an ethical approach to AI in filmmaking,” Trillo said. “This partnership marks the start of a renaissance for independent film and animation, where vibrant collaboration among distinct voices remains essential. It’s not about turning production into a cheap factory line; it’s about reallocating time back into the process and embracing a greater ambition. Asteria is setting a new standard for how AI will be integrated into the film industry, and I’m thrilled to be part of a studio that puts artists at the center.”
Mindful of concerns across the creative community about the downside risks of AI adoption, Asteria says it is aiming to preserve the “heart and humanity of storytelling” in all of its projects. Co-founded by Bryn Mooser, an Oscar-nominated filmmaker and a former industry executive with experience in technology and entertainment, the company hopes to redefine traditional creative boundaries with its slate.
“Paul Trillo is truly a singular filmmaker, his artistic vision and innovative spirit are unparalleled,” Mooser said. “Paul’s ability to seamlessly blend artistry and technology put him in a class all his own. Asteria is lucky to have him on the team.”
