Created by 2025 Winner
Rosa Lykiardopoulos
We celebrate human stories made with AI software, amplifying new voices and pushing the boundaries of storytelling. We curate thousands of AI films from around the world to bring our audience the work shaping AI cinema.
We go deep into the work. Built for filmmakers and film lovers, AAIFF takes you behind every film. Top filmmakers walk through their process, and our creator hackathon puts creators in the room making films live with the best mentors.
No city in the world does October like Austin. AAIFF lands between ACL and Formula 1 when the city is already alive. Two days of new films and filmmaker conversations and hands-on creation. A city built for the world.
The Program
Two days at Zach Theater, built around the craft, the people making AI cinema, and the work they’re putting on screen.
Day One
Day One goes deep on how AI films get made. Keynotes, panels, and live demos with the filmmakers and platforms shaping the craft, every session led by people doing the work.
Day Two
Day Two is the films. We screen competition finalists and the year’s standout films, each followed by an interview with the filmmaker. The awards show closes the night.
Both Days
A creator hackathon runs across both days, putting the tools in filmmakers’ hands. Workshops led by the platforms behind the work, live builds, and time to learn alongside peers and mentors.
Roadmap
Apr 15
Submissions opened
Submissions for AAIFF 2026 went live.
Submit your projectJul 15
Curation Committee closes
Last day to apply for the Curation Committee.
Join the CommitteeAug 1
Early bird tickets
Early bird ticket sales open. Limited window, best price.
Aug 15
Submissions close & regular tickets
Final submission deadline and the start of regular ticket sales.
Submit before closeOct 16 & 17
The festival
Two days at Zach Theater. The films, the filmmakers, the awards.
Stay in the loop
Be part of AAIFF and stay updated on the event, the films, and what we’re building.
Before You Submit
Your film must not infringe on another’s rights, and no public figure’s likeness may be used without written permission.
A majority of the visual shots must be created using AI software.
Most of the screenplay and source material must come from Human Authorship. AI can augment the work, not replace the human creative.
Read the full rules and submit at austinaifilmfest.com/submission.
Submissions open
Open now. 11 categories. Deadline August 15th.
Dale Williams
A young boy whose imagination helps him endure the hardships of a disfigured hand, WWII, and a brutal assault at Jesuit school.
Giovanni Abitante
Two people who remain deeply connected, no matter how much the world around them changes. A story of unconditional love across history.
Stephen Robinson
A Gothic Horror trailer that pulls viewers into a dark, atmospheric world. A haunting preview of a feature-length script's chilling vision.
“The Austin AI Film Festival is more than a festival; it's a gathering of a passionate community pushing the boundaries of AI-driven cinema, fostering collaboration, and ensuring that technology serves creativity, not the other way around.”
Amaru Zeas-Siguenza
Creative Director, Griptape AI
“In just its first year, this festival has already established itself as a premier event in the AI filmmaking space, setting a high standard for the future.”
Kavan Cardoza
Co-Founder & AI Director, Phantom X
“The event was very beautiful, well organized, full of interesting panels and a great place to connect with other creators. I loved it.”
Rafael Beck
Artist and AI Film Director
“I'd like to highlight the love and care that I've received from this festival; great communication, a lot of respect for the submitted films.”
Santiago Hernandez
Creative Director and AI Film Director
“It was an honor to participate and attend. I learned so much, saw many references, and made great connections — truly amazing.”
Bruno Bock
YouTube Creator and AI Film Director
“Huge congrats for orchestrating a successful festival in what I'm sure will be an international staple in the AI film community and festival circuit.”
Simon von Elgg
Designer and Film Director
