Part I - Hackathon date: March 28-29, 2026
Venue: Tsang Shiu Tim Art Hall
Part II –Main event date: May 16-17, 2026
Venue: Shaw Auditorium
The HKUST AI Film Festival returns in 2026 to advance artistic innovation at the intersection of media and generative AI. Building on the success of its inaugural edition—which received over 700 submissions and attracted more than 600 attendees—the festival continues to promote meaningful engagement between creative communities and emerging technologies.
Guided by the theme “New Boundaries, New Life,” this year’s festival invites creators to explore how human imagination can push beyond the constraints of AI systems. The program highlights new methods of visual language, narrative experimentation, and emotional expression made possible through human–machine collaboration.
A core component of the festival is a 36-hour Hackathon during which local secondary school students will develop AI-generated filmmaking works. Outstanding pieces from this challenge will be showcased during the Main Event at the Shaw Auditorium, evaluated by a professional jury, and presented alongside discussions led by international experts from both the humanities and the sciences.
Across campus, interactive exhibitions will spotlight a range of AI-driven art forms—from narrative films and vertical content to AR experiences and robotic installations. Fireside conversations with established creators and emerging talent will further foster dialogue on the evolving role of AI in creative practice.
Click here for more information!