This festival is open to all AI artists worldwide. The content of the video, however, must focus on individuals from underrepresented communities, including people of color, Indigenous communities, and other historically marginalized groups. All participants must be at least 18 years old.

For the purpose of the Chicago AI Film Fest, powered by Playground Pastime, underrepresented communities are groups that have historically faced systemic barriers to access and representation in the fields of art, film, technology, and AI.

This includes, but is not limited to:

• Racial and Ethnic Groups: Individuals of African descent, African-American, Indigenous communities, Hispanic/Latino, Asian, Pacific Islander, and other people of color.
• People with Disabilities: Individuals with physical, sensory, cognitive, or mental health disabilities who bring unique perspectives and creativity to AI and art.
• LGBTQIA+ Community: Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, asexual, and other identities.
• Cultural Minorities: Groups underrepresented in mainstream art and technology narratives, including immigrants and refugees.

We’re looking for short and long form AI-generated films (up to 5 minutes in length) that showcase creativity, diversity, and compelling storytelling. Your video can focus on cultural heritage, futuristic worlds, community challenges, or any imaginative concept that resonates with the theme of representation.

An AI-generated film is a video created using AI technologies, such as text-to-video tools, generative AI software, or a combination of AI-generated imagery and animations. If you’re unsure whether your video qualifies, feel free to contact us for clarification.

Early Entry – $35 
Regular Entry – $45 
Extended Entry – $55.

If you wish to submit additional videos, you can do so for an additional entry fee.

Submissions will be evaluated by a panel of judges with expertise in AI art, storytelling, and diversity. Key criteria include:

• Creativity and Originality
• Technical Proficiency
• Artistic Expression and Storytelling
• Alignment with Theme
• Overall Impact

We encourage artists at all levels to participate! Whether you’re an experienced creator or just starting, your voice matters. We’re here to celebrate creativity and innovation, not perfection.

Yes, collaborative works are allowed. The entire team would be given credit during the festival.

The top winning films will be shown at the Chicago AI Film Festival. The winner will be notified via email and announced publicly on our website and social media platforms.

Videos must be:

• In MP4 format.
• Maximum 1080p resolution.
• Films in both 16:9 and 9:16 format will be accepted
• No longer than 3 minutes for short form category and 5 minutes for the long form category 

Yes. Films must be original and free from offensive, discriminatory, or inappropriate content. Submissions should align with the contest’s mission to celebrate diversity and combat bias.