Actors Ben Affleck and Matt Damon co-own their new production company Artists’ Equity. Both actors have hopes of giving more liberty and profit sharing back to actors, writers and directors with their production company.
In an interview with The New York Times published Sunday, the duo discussed their plans for a new venture following the closure of their previous production company, Pearl Street. The production company was born after Damon and Affleck received at least $100 million in funding from Partners.
Damon, who produces exclusively at Artists’ Equity, said the company wants film and television talent to “take ownership of their creative power, providing a platform for both established and emerging filmmakers to streamline the development of their content,” The Hollywood Reporter wrote.
As streaming begins Artists’ Equity will shift its focus from quantity to quality. The duo wants to address the impact on the deals streaming companies have made with film and TV maker sover the past 50 years.
Variety writes Affleck’s comment on how he feels:
“There was part of me, I have to admit, that was like — come on, these studio guys sit behind desks and make phone calls. The artists are the ones who have to go off and actually make the movie and do all the work. I have already been humbled,” he said. “But my only regret is that I didn’t have the sense of self to try this earlier. Now I feel very ready to do it. I’m right at that period of life where you have enough experience and confidence and self-assuredness.”
Production Company Actors’ Equity has two films out its first year. First, an untitled sports drama starring both, directed by Affleck and co-written by Affleck, Damon and Alex Convery. Second, The project, which centers on the sneaker salesman who convinced Michael Jordan in the ’80s to work with Nike. This film will be produced with Skydance Sports, Mandalay Pictures and Amazon Studios.
Affleck and Damon, with their company, hope to achieve the goal of releasing five films per year.