"Misaligned" is the first full-length feature from AI-focused studio Particle 6, featuring the AI-generated character Tilly Norwood. Separately, Xicoia—the studio behind the AI actor—has appointed a new executive to oversee the character's expansion and related digital content.
Film Production and Development
Particle 6 is developing "Misaligned," a comedy-drama described as a coming-of-age story. The narrative is set in a digital world called the Tillyverse, where Tilly—an artificial intelligence without a physical body or personal experiences—accesses others' experiences and develops human-like desires after encountering a rogue digital entity from the dark web.
The production is planned as a hybrid project, integrating traditional film and television professionals with AI specialists. This includes incorporating AI training and mentorship into the production process. "Misaligned" is currently in early development, with key collaborators being attached. The studio intends to produce the film alongside other AI-related film, television, and commercial projects.
The project follows industry discussion from late 2025, after Particle 6 CEO Eline van der Velden stated that Tilly Norwood would be signed by a talent agency, which drew criticism from unions, actors, and filmmakers.
Executive Appointment and Digital Universe Expansion
Mark Whelan has been appointed to a leadership role at Xicoia. Whelan, described as the studio's first major hire, will focus on the "rapid expansion" of the AI actor Tilly Norwood and the launch of the "Tillyverse."
Whelan previously served at Amazon's Prime Video, where he managed social expansion and strategy for brands including The Grand Tour and Clarkson's Farm. His past roles also include leading YouTube format development.
In his new position, Whelan will oversee development of the Tillyverse, described as a constantly evolving digital universe for Tilly Norwood and other AI characters. He will lead a team in creating new proprietary AI characters for Xicoia and its umbrella studio, Particle6, and supervise the development of AI talent for third-party commissions.
Whelan will collaborate with Eline van der Velden on the Tillyverse project. Van der Velden has previously stated intentions to develop 40 diverse AI characters within this digital world.
Statements from Leadership
"AI can support premium narrative filmmaking but requires substantial human input, and filmmakers who combine storytelling instinct with AI tools will thrive."
Eline van der Velden, CEO of Xicoia and Particle6, further stated regarding the partnership with Whelan: "Together, build something entirely new."
"This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Xicoia aims to define new industry standards by combining technology and creative strategy for the Tillyverse and Tilly Norwood's evolving narrative."
— Mark Whelan