WORLD AI FILM FESTIVAL (WAIFF) — CANNES 2026
The World AI Film Festival (WAIFF) is a pioneering event celebrating the fusion of AI technology with cinema. Organised with the involvement of Claude Lelouch and Thomas Bidegain, WAIFF hosts its grand finale at the Palais des Festivals in Cannes. The festival features international editions in Japan, Korea, China, and Brazil, with satellite festivals for filmmakers from these countries. Categories include Short Film, Feature Film, Micro Series, and Advertising. To qualify, each work must use at least three generative AI tools.
Deadline
2026 submissions are CLOSED. Watch for 2027 edition at worldaifilmfestival.com.
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Cost
Check FilmFreeway and worldaifilmfestival.com for fees. Genario subscription required.
Format
AI short films, features, micro series, and advertising. Must use at least 3 generative AI tools. Requires Genario subscription for script development.
Eligibility
Global. Must use at least 3 generative AI tools. Genario subscription required for script development.
What You Get
Screening at the Palais des Festivals in Cannes. Awards across multiple categories. Association with Claude Lelouch and Thomas Bidegain. Global visibility during Cannes Film Festival period.
What to Submit
Film submission via WAIFF website or FilmFreeway, with documentation of AI tools used.
Insider Tips
The Cannes venue and Lelouch involvement give WAIFF exceptional prestige in the AI film space. The 3-tool minimum requirement means you need a genuine multi-AI workflow. The satellite editions in Japan, Korea, China, and Brazil suggest future expansion — Africa could be next. Get on their radar now for 2027.
2026 closed. Watch worldaifilmfestival.com for 2027 call for entries.
Applications are closed
This opportunity is no longer accepting applications. Browse open opportunities
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