ABOUT THE A.I. FILM RUSH

  • A.I. Film Rush requires the use of artificial intelligence as a creative tool.

    All submitted films must include live-action footage captured with a camera and real performers. AI may be used to assist, enhance, or accelerate the creative process, but films that are entirely AI-generated from start to finish are not eligible.

    AI is intended to support the work, not replace it.

    ACCEPTABLE USE OF AI INCLUDES:

    • Script development or ideation

    • Visual effects or generated elements integrated into live footage

    • AI-assisted editing, sound design, or color work

    • AI-generated music or audio elements

    • Workflow acceleration or creative experimentation

    NOT PERMITTED:

    • Films that are fully AI-generated with no live-action footage

    • Submissions created entirely from text-to-video or image-to-video generation without filmed material

    A.I. Film Rush is about hybrid filmmaking, combining real-world production with modern tools to push creative boundaries under time constraints.

  • KICKOFF

    📍 Main Street, Turlock
    🗓 Thursday, April 9
    ⏰ 6:00 PM

    The Kickoff event marks the official start of A.I. Film Rush.
    Each team will receive their randomly assigned genre at this event.

    SUBMISSION DEADLINE

    🗓 Sunday, April 12
    ⏰ 4:00 PM

    All films must be completed and submitted by this time.

    THEATRICAL PREMIERE

    📍 State Theatre of Modesto
    🗓 Friday, April 17
    ⏰ Evening Screening

    Selected films will premiere in a live theatrical screening.

  • To be eligible for screening and awards, all films must meet the following:

    • Films must be created entirely within the official competition window

    • Maximum runtime: 5 minutes

    • Each film must follow the random genre assigned at Kickoff

    • Artificial intelligence must be used as part of the filmmaking process

    • AI may be used in any capacity (writing, visuals, audio, editing, ideation, etc.)

    • Films must not exceed PG-13 content

    • One completed film per team

    • Participants enter as Film Teams

    • Teams may be solo creators or multi-person crews

    • Only one film may be submitted per team

    • A single entry fee applies per submission, regardless of team size

    A.I. Film Rush emphasizes output and execution, not crew size or budget.

  • At least one representative from each team must attend the Kickoff.

    At Kickoff, teams will receive:

    • Their randomly assigned genre

    • Official competition rules

    • Submission instructions

    • Timeline details

  • Completed films must be submitted by the official deadline.
    Submission format, file specifications, and delivery instructions will be provided at Kickoff.

    Late submissions may not be eligible for screening.

  • A selection of the top 16 films will screen at the State Theatre of Modesto in a public theatrical premiere.

    This event is designed to celebrate finished work, creative risk, and disciplined execution. Awards and recognitions will be presented during the screening.

    Friends, family, and the creative community are encouraged to attend.

  • What camera can I use?

    Use whatever you have access to. Professional cameras, DSLRs, mirrorless cameras, camcorders, phones, screen capture, or AI-generated visuals are all allowed. The competition is focused on execution and storytelling, not gear.

    What editing software should I use?

    Use the software you’re most comfortable with. Any editing platform is acceptable, including professional, consumer, or AI-assisted tools. There are no restrictions on software choice.

    What music can I use?

    You may use:

    • Royalty-free music

    • Music you have permission to use

    • Music generated with AI tools

    Copyrighted music is not allowed unless you have explicit rights or permission. If you generate music using AI, you are responsible for ensuring it is cleared for use and does not infringe on copyrighted material.

    Is AI optional?

    No. AI is required.
    Each film must incorporate artificial intelligence in some way. How you use it is up to you—writing, ideation, visuals, sound, music, editing, workflow acceleration, or a combination of methods.

    Can I work with more than one team?

    Yes. If you have the time and capacity, you may participate on multiple teams, as long as each team submits a separate film and follows all competition rules.

    Can a team submit more than one film?

    No. Each registered team may submit one film only. If the same individuals want to create more than one film, they must do so under separate team entries.

    Does every team receive the same genre?

    No. Each team is assigned a random genre at the Kickoff event. This genre serves as the primary creative constraint and must be followed throughout the film.

    What genres might be assigned?

    Genres may include, but are not limited to:
    drama, comedy, action, romance, horror, thriller, sci-fi, mystery, documentary-style, experimental, and hybrid formats.

    Who owns the film after the competition?

    You do. Teams retain full ownership of their films and are free to submit them to festivals or publish them online. A.I. Film Rush may use short excerpts for promotional purposes related to the event.

    How do I enter?

    Registration is completed through the official submission link on this site. Required details and submission steps are outlined on the entry page.