SUBMISSIONCRITERIA 2026

THE FILM

Entrants created a 7-10 minute AI-generated film (in any language, subtitled in English).

AI TOOLS

Films used Google Gemini tools for video generation — see the criteria for more detail.

TIMELINE

Filmmakers had about two months from the start date to complete and submit their film.

ELIGIBILITY

Open worldwide. One entry per individual.

AWARD

The winner received $1,000,000 USD and global recognition for their work.

SUBMISSION CRITERIA

AI INTEGRATION

AI was required as a core creative tool, used heavily across production:

Film must be at least 70% AI-generated (original captured footage allowed as supplement)
Applicants must use Google Gemini or any other Google's AI models & tools including Flow, Veo to generate videos & Imagen to generate images, or third-party tool that utilizes Google Gemini as the core underlying technology.
Other tools and software may be used for supplemental editing, but not for video generation

STORYTELLING

Films needed to tell a cohesive and emotionally resonant story:

Clear narrative structure: beginning, middle, end
Character development
Dialogue-driven scenes or monologue arcs
Emotional impact or message clarity
Use of conflict, tension, or resolution
Story logic and internal consistency
Film must follow one of the suggested themes

CREATIVITY & AESTHETIC

Judges valued original vision and stylistic coherence:

Concept originality (How unique is the idea?)
World-building or setting design
Consistency in visual style and tone especially colors
Cinematic mood (lighting, atmosphere)
Creative use of lip-syncing and facial expressions

TECHNICAL EXECUTION

Submissions had to meet professional production standards:

Clean audio mix (no distortion, clear levels)
Proper sync between dialogue and characters
Proper sound design sync with the scene separation of dialogue, music, and effects as separate audio tracks
Visual continuity and scene transitions
English Subtitles

INNOVATION & ETHICAL USE

Bold creativity and responsible AI use were rewarded:

Transparency about AI models and tools used
Avoidance of biased, offensive, or misleading outputs
Provide open file when requested

FAQs

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