TOKYOAINEWWAVEFILM FESTIVAL
The international platform for AI cinema — from fully synthetic films to experimental visions that don't look like cinema at all. The future is being invented.
CINEMA IS BEING RE-INVENTED
From sound to colour to digital — every revolution opened new storytelling. AI is the next turning point. We are an international platform for filmmakers, artists and technologists exploring AI, cinema and human creativity — from traditionally structured films using AI to fully synthetic, experimental and hybrid works.
We do not believe the future of cinema has already been defined. We believe it is being invented.— Festival Philosophy / Tokyo AI New Wave
FILM CATEGORIES & AWARDS
All genres and lengths welcome. Awards recognize achievements — not requirements.
Best AI FilmPrincipal award for outstanding creative achievement.
Best AI Short FilmFor outstanding shorter-form cinematic works.
Best AI FeatureFor outstanding longer-form cinematic works.
Best ExperimentalUnconventional approaches to expression.
Best AI AnimationAnimation created with AI assistance.
New Wave VisionOriginal vision expanding AI cinema.
Best Japanese AI FilmOutstanding work by Japan-based creators.
Special Jury AwardExceptional work beyond categories.
RULES & SUBMISSION GUIDE
Open to everyone. No nationality, budget or premiere limits.
01 — Who can submit?
Filmmakers, artists, collectives, students, independent producers and professionals from all countries. No restrictions on experience or budget.
02 — Use of AI
Projects should show creative engagement with AI — in writing, image, animation, sound, music, editing, VFX — or explore AI as subject. No minimum % required.
03 — Formats & Duration
Narrative, documentary, animation, experimental, music video, visual essay, hybrid and new audiovisual forms. No min/max running time.
04 — Language
Any language eligible. Non-English dialogue needs English subtitles. Japanese subtitles may be requested for selected screenings.
05 — Tools & Disclosure
No required AI platform. Just tell us briefly how AI was used to help programming team understand your process.
06 — Rights & Ethics
You are responsible for rights and permissions. No unauthorized likeness or unlawful content. Fiction and experiments welcome within law.
07 — Premiere & Work in Progress
Previously screened or online films eligible. Works-in-progress accepted — final version needed by deadline if selected.
08 — Selection
Judged on originality, vision and impact — not budget or amount of AI. Submission does not guarantee selection. Jury decisions final.
✦ OUR PHILOSOPHY ✦
NO PRESCRIBED AESTHETIC. NO PREFERRED TECHNOLOGY. WE EXIST TO DISCOVER WHAT HAS NOT YET BEEN IMAGINED.
READY TO SHOW YOUR VISION?
Submit in 3 minutes via FilmFreeway. No premiere required. All lengths, all genres, all tools welcome.
contact: info@tokyoainewwave.com — Tokyo, Japan
