Where algorithms meet art. For two days in the Carpathians, the festival showed films in which artificial intelligence was not just a tool, but a genuine creative collaborator.
About the festival
NeoCinema AI brought together Ukrainian and international filmmakers, artists and innovators exploring what happens when AI becomes part of the creative process — from AI-driven music videos to experimental animation and hybrid films.
Because of the wartime situation, several sessions were held together with our partner festival in a certified shelter, to keep everyone safe. Directors travelled from abroad to join Ukrainian filmmakers, and the festival went ahead exactly as planned — a reminder that creative life in Ukraine continues.
Categories
Videoclips AI
Music videos where AI drives the imagery, style and motion.
Experimental Animation AI
Abstract and stylized works exploring new textures, motion and structure.
Microshort Films
Stories and mood pieces under 3 minutes, made with the help of AI.
Hybrids
Live-action footage combined with substantial AI-generated elements.
Audience favourite: “Thoughts Aloud” by Iryna Kyryliuk drew some of the warmest reactions of the festival.
Winners 2026
Videoclips AI
Carcar Ti
China
Experimental Animation AI
Yana Vynohrodska, Vasyl Khashchevoi, Yulia Kulish
Ukraine
Microshort Films
Estelle Cortet
Germany
Hybrids
John Batiste Darbonne
United States
Awards
Winners in all four categories received the same prize package:
- The official NeoCinema AI Statuette
- A limited-edition Winner's Gear package
- A Winner Profile and interview on the festival website and social channels
- A submission waiver for partner festival Max Sir International Film Festival
Between screenings, directors compared notes on tools and technique, and the mood in the room was warm, curious and celebratory. NeoCinema AI keeps growing as a place where technology and creativity meet — and Zakarpattia once again proved a welcoming home for it.