Where AI Storytelling Takes the Big Screen
Chicago Ai Film Festival
April 18, 2026
11:00am - 3:30pm
Reva and David Logan Center for the Arts
The University of Chicago
915 E 60th St
Chicago, IL 60637
Creators, technologists, filmmakers, and culture-shapers gather in Chicago for a powerful one-day celebration of AI-driven cinema.
This is a curated afternoon of groundbreaking AI films, live conversations with creators and judges, and an immersive filmmaking workshop as we honor the next era of storytelling.
Seats are limited. When they’re gone, they’re gone.
who should attend
AI filmmakers and aspiring creators
Film students and digital storytellers
Creative technologists
Media professionals
Curious innovators who want to understand where storytelling is headed
If you care about narrative, culture, and technology intersecting, this room is for you.
WHY THIS FESTIVAL
matters
AI filmmaking is no longer experimental; it’s evolving into a legitimate creative medium.
The Chicago AI Film Fest was created to:
Elevate serious AI storytellers
Showcase narrative-driven AI films (not just tech demos)
Create real-world community around emerging cinema
Spotlight diverse voices shaping the future of film
WHAT TO EXPECT
A high-impact, tightly curated 4.5-hour experience:
- Official Film Screenings
- AI Film Awards
- Filmmaker Interviews
- Judge Interviews
- 90-Min AI Film Workshop
- creator networking
Festival Pricing
EARLY BIRD TICKET
LIMITED AVAILABILITY (SEE BELOW)-
Access to All On-Site Activities
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Film Screenings & Awards Announcement
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Live Interviews
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Interactive AI Workshop
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Networking with AI Filmmakers
STANDARD TICKET
(PRICE AFTER MARCH 10TH)-
Access to All On-Site Activities
-
Film Screenings & Awards Announcement
-
Live Interviews
-
Interactive AI Workshop
-
Networking with AI Filmmakers
CREATOR'S CIRCLE PASS
LIMITED AVAILABILITY-
Everything in Standard Ticket Level
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1 mo Premium Playground Skool Community Access
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Private online post-festival session with industry pros
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Exclusive digital festival swag bag
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Creator’s Circle Recognition
FAQ
What does my ticket include?
The ticket to the festival will provide access to the film screenings, filmmaker and judges’ interviews, an interactive workshop, and networking opportunities with filmmakers and creators.
Will a schedule for the day be available?
Yes. A full program schedule will be published and emailed to all ticket holders ahead of the event.
The festival will feature curated screenings, live conversations, a 90-minute workshop, and the awards presentation within the 11:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. program window.
Attendees will receive the finalized run-of-show in advance to plan their arrival and departure with confidence.
Will this event be live streamed?
No, this event will be in-person only.
Can I attend if I am not a filmmaker?
Absolutely. This event is open to creatives, students, professionals, and curious attendees interested in the future of storytelling.
Are tickets refundable?
All ticket sales are final. If you are unable to attend, you may transfer your ticket to another guest with advance notice to the festival team. Email info@thereferralstore.com
Are there hotels nearby?
Yes. Hyde Park offers boutique and business-friendly hotels within walking distance or a short ride from the venue. The Sophy Hotel in Hyde Park is a 4-star hotel with a wonderful artistic flair. Downtown Chicago hotels are also a great option and typically 15–30 minutes away by car, depending on traffic.
Which airport should I fly into?
Midway International Airport (MDW) is closer to Hyde Park and typically offers shorter travel times to the venue.
O’Hare International Airport (ORD) is a larger airport with more flight options and is also a convenient choice depending on your route.
What is the transportation & parking situation for the venue?
Free weekend parking is available in the surface lot at the corner of S. Drexel Ave and E. 60th Street. Paid garage parking is available nearby. Street parking is also available around campus.
Uber or Lift are always an option for transportation to the venue. Multiple CTA bus routes stop within walking distance of the Logan Center.