How We Built a $50K/Month AI Filmmaking Studio
Who are you and what business did you start?
We’re Ali, Kevin, and James — three entrepreneurs and filmmakers reimagining storytelling through AI. Ali directed Hitman: Agent 47, James has 25+ years producing commercials for global brands, and Kevin brings the operational strategy and scale to turn creative ideas into a sustainable business. Together, we founded Layer8, a studio where AI meets human filmmaking.
Our clients are agencies, production companies, and bold brands looking for fast, cinematic content with emotional depth. What sets us apart is our human-led approach — every frame is shaped by real filmmakers, not just prompts.
Today, Layer8 generates around $ 50,000 per month, growing through partnerships, referrals, and standout work.
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How do you come up with the idea for Layer8: AI-Driven Film Production & Storytelling?
The idea for Layer8 originated from observing how AI was transforming production, yet it lacked soul without human input. The “aha” moment hit when we realized the future wasn’t AI or human, but both working together. With Ali’s experience directing films, James’s 25+ years in commercial production, and Kevin’s strength in operations, we launched Layer8 to merge cinematic storytelling with AI speed. We validated the idea by producing early tests and quickly landing a paid commission from the California Highway Patrol, which turned out beautifully. That project confirmed there was real demand for human-directed, AI-enhanced content done at scale.
How did you launch Layer8: AI-Driven Film Production & Storytelling and get initial traction?
We launched Layer8 quietly, reaching out to our existing network with early examples of what AI + human filmmaking could look like. There was no big announcement—just proof of concept. Within days, we landed a commission from the California Highway Patrol, which became our first paid job and a major confidence boost. People were intrigued, saying our work felt cinematic and fresh. We learned that showing, not telling, works best. The first dollar came in the first week, and the biggest lesson was to trust the vision — clients respond when the work speaks for itself, even before the brand is fully built.
What was the growth strategy for Layer8: AI-Driven Film Production & Storytelling and how did you scale?
We’ve grown Layer8 primarily through our existing contacts and direct relationships. Word of mouth has been our biggest driver — and it’s brought us clients as far as India, where we’re now producing a three-part iced tea commercial campaign. That client found us after seeing our work for the California Highway Patrol. That project really opened doors and proved that there’s a global appetite for AI-powered content when it’s driven by real filmmakers.
The truth is, we’re just getting started. It’s been a whirlwind three months. We’re already on our third website as we iterate, refine, and figure out who we are. Layer8 is a living story — we stay nimble and evolve fast because the landscape is changing fast. That adaptability is part of our DNA.
Not everything works — and that’s part of the process. A year ago, we were pushing template-style ads. They didn’t take off. But that failure gave us clarity. Knowing what doesn’t work is just as valuable as knowing what does. It’s a process of elimination, and momentum comes from moving forward anyway.
We’ve also learned to say yes to visibility — we were recently invited to Germany to speak on a Q&A panel about AI and advertising. Whether it’s podcasts, interviews like Starter Story, or just sharing your journey online, getting your name out there matters.
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Our advice? Launch with what you have, talk to people, and continue to evolve. Feedback is fuel. Action is clarity. Get seen, stay open, and keep moving.
What were the biggest lessons learned from building Layer8: AI-Driven Film Production & Storytelling?
We don’t see missteps as mistakes — just steps in the right direction. One early oversight was underestimating how quickly eyes would land on what we were doing. A major brand reached out, claiming our original name infringed on their trademark. Instead of wasting energy fighting it, we took it as a sign to evolve. That led us to Layer8, a name we now love and that reflects our identity far more clearly. Every challenge should lead you somewhere better — if you let it. Don’t get discouraged. Stay open, keep moving, and trust the pivots. They often reveal the gold.
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More about Layer8: AI-Driven Film Production & Storytelling:
Who is the owner of Layer8: AI-Driven Film Production & Storytelling?
James Dubec is the founder of Layer8: AI-Driven Film Production & Storytelling.
When did James Dubec start Layer8: AI-Driven Film Production & Storytelling?
2023
How much money has James Dubec made from Layer8: AI-Driven Film Production & Storytelling?
James Dubec started the business in 2023, and currently makes an average of $600K/year.
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