Arizona Developer Invests AI Profits to Launch Film Studio

Anita Verma-Lallian, a 43-year-old real-estate developer from Arizona, is shifting her focus from the booming artificial intelligence sector to the film industry. After successfully developing land for AI data centers across the state, she is channeling her profits into film productions and plans for a substantial studio backlot near Phoenix. Verma-Lallian’s new venture, Camelback Productions, has already backed projects including the comedy Doin’ It, starring popular content creator Lilly Singh, and is involved in upcoming films featuring Kal Penn and Cynthia Erivo.

Verma-Lallian’s journey began after she graduated from the University of Southern California with an MBA in 2007. Raised in Chicago by Indian immigrant parents, she entered her father’s real-estate business before launching her own ventures about six years ago. She has since amassed significant land holdings and investment partnerships, including collaborations with notable figures like controversial investor Chamath Palihapitiya. Last year, she sold a 2,100-acre site for $160 million, quadrupling her initial investment.

Transforming AI Success into Film Opportunities

The success of her data centers, which cater to technology companies’ need for expansive spaces, has fueled her passion for storytelling. “Seeing success in that [AI data] space has given us an opportunity to feed another passion, feed something a little more creative,” Verma-Lallian stated. She is currently acquiring approximately 1,500 acres west of Phoenix to create a film studio that will include a diverse entertainment complex. The strategic location near major highways is intended to facilitate easy access for cast and crew from Southern California, with Phoenix just a six-hour drive away.

Verma-Lallian is optimistic about attracting filmmakers to Arizona, highlighting new tax incentives and the state’s favorable climate as potential draws. She aims to position Arizona as a competitive alternative to established film hubs like New Mexico. Her planned backlot will also feature an “AI studio,” although the specifics of optimizing such a physical space for technology primarily designed for computer use remain to be clarified.

A Passion for Storytelling

While some may view her transition to film as a departure from her successful real-estate career, Verma-Lallian is driven by a genuine love for storytelling. She acknowledges the common narrative of investors from other industries flooding into Hollywood, often with mixed results. Yet, she believes her deep connection to the art of filmmaking and her commitment to amplifying underrepresented voices will distinguish her efforts.

Verma-Lallian gained media attention last year after purchasing Matthew Perry’s Pacific Palisades home, where the actor passed away in October 2023. Despite the somber circumstances, she was drawn to the property for its stunning views.

Determined to make her mark in the film industry, Verma-Lallian faces skepticism from some who question her decision to venture into an unpredictable field. “People [in Hollywood] say, ‘You’re doing well; why are you doing this to yourself?’” she shared. “But it’s a fascinating industry — something where you can actually change culture.” As she sets her sights on expanding Camelback Productions, she remains committed to exploring new narratives and taking risks in a challenging yet captivating industry.