Indywood International AI Cinefest

1. Application Dates & Process

a) Submissions will be accepted from 1 November 2025 to 8th March 2026
b) Only films completed after January 1, 2023, are eligible for submission.
c) Eligible films must have incorporated at least 70% of productive Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the filmmaking process — whether in pre-production, production, or post-production stages.
d)Each filmmaker may submit a maximum of two (2) works.
e) The maximum runtime for submitted films is 30 minutes, including credits.
f) Films previously broadcast on television or released on digital platforms (YouTube, Vimeo, OTT, etc.) are still eligible to participate.
g) Films that have been screened at other national or international festivals or have received awards are also eligible.
h) The festival is open to filmmakers worldwide.
I)Special Feature Film Category:
Films with a runtime exceeding 30 minutes may be submitted for special consideration. Selection under this category will be limited and entirely at the discretion of the festival jury. Same submission fees apply.

2. Evaluation Process & Criteria

a. Films will be evaluated based on the following criteria:
Script and storytelling
Creativity in the use of Artificial Intelligence
Visual and sound design
Overall aesthetic and artistic integrity
b. A Pre-Selection Committee, appointed by the festival management, will review all submissions.
c. Selected films will advance to the Main Jury, whose decision will be final and binding.

3. Selection & Announcement

a. Officially selected films will be announced on the festival website and official media platforms.
b. All selected films will be screened as part of the festival program.

4. Screening & Publicity Rights

a. The festival reserves the right to use film excerpts, trailers, clips, stills, and posters for promotional purposes across various media platforms (television, press, radio, and internet).
b. Copyright remains with the filmmaker; however, by submitting a film, the filmmaker grants the festival non-commercial screening rights for the duration of the event.
c. Selected films will be screened at venues chosen by the festival management.
d. No screening fees or royalties will be paid to the filmmakers.
e. The filmmaker must ensure that the submitted work is original, legal, and does not infringe on any copyright or intellectual property rights.

5. General Rules

a. The applicant must be the producer and/or director of the submitted film.
b. Once a film has been officially selected, it cannot be withdrawn from the festival.
c. Submission of an entry implies full acceptance of the festival’s rules and regulations.
d. Films that do not comply with the stated requirements may be disqualified at any stage by the festival management.
e. Additional materials (such as posters, digital files, or promotional kits) may be requested from selected filmmakers and must be provided promptly.

6. Language & Subtitles

a. Films not in English language must include English subtitles.
b. Subtitles must be clear, legible, and properly synchronized.

7. Festival Format

a. All submitted films will undergo an initial screening round for selection.
b. Shortlisted films will be presented in the official screening event, followed by an awards ceremony.
c. The festival may also organize panel discussions, workshops, and networking sessions to encourage dialogue and innovation in AI-based filmmaking.