MIXED* is a hybrid film showcase—celebrating human storytelling in all its evolving forms. Cinematic craft, generative AI, and the messy middle in between.

The inaugural event will take place on February 4, 2026, at the Tomorrow Theatre in Portland, Oregon USA. We are currently seeking submissions.

ABOUT MIXED*

More than a festival, MIXED* is a collaborative experiment at the edge of storytelling—a space for filmmakers, artists, and creative technologists to explore the future of film, content, and media in the age of intelligence.

Through screenings, panels, and workshops, MIXED* invites creators to test new tools, share their process, and expand the boundaries of cinematic expression. Whether you work with real cameras, generative models, or a mix of both, this is your space—curious, experimental, and devoted to the power of story to move us forward.

Come explore. Come experiment. Come reimagine the future of storytelling. To learn more and/or purchase a ticket to attend the showcase, please visit: www.dbclay.com/mixed

PRESENTED BY:

​db clay
AI Portland
Party Animal
Instrument
Oregon Film
Portland Events & Film
Tomorrow Theater

Awards & Prizes

This marks the first-ever MIXED* showcase—a community celebration of human creativity, machine intelligence, and the stories that connect us all.

Five OFFICIAL SELECTIONS will be chosen to receive a signature MIXED* laurel and a spotlight at the live showcase on February 4, 2026, at Tomorrow Theatre in Portland, Oregon USA. Additional films may be screened as programming allows.

One film will receive THE ASTERISK AWARD, recognizing the story that best embodies the ethos of MIXED*—its emotional depth, creative curiosity, and the fusion of human and technological artistry that define this new cinematic era.

As our inaugural showcase, there are no cash prizes (unless a sponsor steps forward!). For now, we offer connection, recognition, and community—as together we navigate a new chapter in how stories are told.

Rules & Terms

At MIXED*, we value experimentation, collaboration, and curiosity. These guidelines are meant to support a clear, fair, and inclusive experience for all participants. We welcome films that push the boundaries of technology while honoring the human heart of storytelling.

MIXED* welcomes bold storytellers across every genre—narrative, animation, documentary, experimental, horror, music video, and beyond.

Films should run approximately 1–15 minutes and demonstrate a thoughtful blend of traditional production and AI-augmented techniques—whether through visuals, sound, writing, post-production, and more.

Projects completed after November 30, 2022, are eligible. There are no premiere restrictions. Films previously screened online as part of a ticketed festival remain eligible.

Selected filmmakers are encouraged to attend the live showcase in Portland, Oregon (not required, but highly encouraged). Travel and lodging are at the filmmaker’s expense.

We offer two submission tiers: a $10 “Patron” tier, which helps support the event, and a “Free” tier option for those for whom fees are a barrier. Please note that submission fees are non-refundable.

TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• All selected films must be delivered digitally and suitable for theatrical screening.
• Please provide a high-quality video file (HD or higher) with clear sound and no added slates, countdowns, or trailers.
• All submissions must be provided as a FilmFreeway online screener or password-protected Vimeo link.
• Subtitles should be included in-frame if your film contains non-English dialogue.
• Detailed technical specifications are available upon request for projects that fall outside these guidelines.

RIGHTS & PERMISSIONS:

• By submitting your project to MIXED*, you confirm that you have the appropriate rights and permissions to publicly exhibit the film and grant the festival permission to screen it for a live audience.
• You also authorize MIXED* to use stills, posters, and trailer clips from your film for promotional, educational, and archival purposes.
• We recognize that many projects created with AI tools involve complex or shared authorship. Filmmakers are asked to disclose any generative tools or datasets used as part of their submission.
• MIXED* supports transparency and ethical use of technology but does not assume liability for underlying AI model outputs, licenses, or data sources.
• Submissions containing hate speech or discriminatory content will not be accepted.

DEADLINES & NOTIFICATIONS:

• Submission Deadline: January 5, 2026
• Notification of Official Selections: January 15, 2026
• Hybrid Film Showcase: February 4, 2026 | Portland, Oregon USA
4 Reviews
Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Alexander Vertyakov

    It would be nice to indicate the status even if it wasn't selected or didn't win at the festival. It turns out that they noted the status of the film being selected, but what happened to it afterward is unclear

    February 2026
    Helpful
  • Dhaval S

    Although we couldn't attend the festival, Garett kindly communicated all the necessary updates. Also we understood that it was a great success. Hoping Mixed* continues to grow and we are able to attend it next time.

    February 2026
    Helpful
  • Felipe Valério

    I can say that Mixed marked a real turning point in my journey as an AI creator. Having my film Blue selected for the official program connected me with an incredible network of professionals I hadn’t met before.

    Garett is genuinely thoughtful and truly celebrates every step alongside us. Beyond keeping me informed about all the stages of my films and the event, he was always available whenever I had questions.

    I wish the very best to the team, to Mixed, and to everyone who shared their trust and creativity throughout this experience.

    Abraços from Brazil!

    February 2026
    Helpful
  • Olaf Taranczewski

    Great experience. Of course I might be biased, as my film "The Hum" won the MIEXED* audience award. However, the communication before and after the event was awesome, Garett and the whole team did a great job. The films were shown at a beautiful cinema in Portland and from what I know it was very well attended. Thank you!!!

    February 2026
    Helpful