NeoCinema is handing out a custom-fabricated statuette for AI films under three minutes, with entries open until 31 December 2026

A new physical award has entered the AI filmmaking calendar. NeoCinema's Statuette for Algorithmic Art is a custom-fabricated trophy awarded across three categories, music videos, microshorts under three minutes, and hybrid live-action/AI films, with winners also receiving a dedicated profile, interview, and full festival-season promotion across the organiser's social channels. The emphasis on a tangible, fabricated object sets it apart from the purely digital recognition that dominates much of the AI film circuit.

The festival is positioned explicitly for filmmakers who want algorithmic work evaluated on its own creative terms, not as a novelty category bolted onto a conventional shorts programme. Any AI tooling is permitted, and the length ceiling of three minutes applies to all entries. Non-English-language films must include English subtitles. Entry fees are not disclosed on the festival's own page and are listed separately on the FilmFreeway submission platform, so check the FilmFreeway listing carefully before committing.

What you submit

Entries must be original AI-assisted or AI-generated films running under three minutes in total. The filmmakers must own all rights to the submitted work. The festival accepts work across three creative categories: AI music videos, microshorts, and hybrid films that combine live-action footage with AI-generated elements. Non-English dialogue or narration requires English subtitles. Any number or combination of AI tools is permitted, and there is no stated restriction on when the film was completed.

Prize structure

Winners in each category receive the official NeoCinema AI Statuette, a custom-fabricated physical trophy. Beyond the object itself, the festival commits to a featured winner profile with interview and promotion across its channels throughout the festival season. There is no cash component disclosed; the prize is the statuette and the associated promotional coverage.

Terms worth reading

Filmmakers retain rights to their work, as the entry requirement specifies that the submitter must own all rights, which is a positive indicator for IP retention. That said, the full terms governing how the festival may use submitted work for promotional purposes (trailers, social clips, winner showcases) are not summarised on the festival's own listing page. You should review the complete terms on the FilmFreeway listing before submitting. Entry fees, if any, are also only visible there. The festival page was verified against the organiser's official site on 22 May 2026.

Submissions close on 31 December 2026. No cutoff time is published, so aim to submit by 30 December to avoid last-minute platform issues. The official contest page and the FilmFreeway entry portal are where you will find any updates to fees or category rules.

Source: https://aifilmcontests.com/contests/neocinema-ai-film-festival-2026