Coming in 2027

Film categories.

SAAiFA's first film competition opens in 2027. From narrative features to experimental shorts, these are the categories currently in development. Each has its own rules and duration limits, and Founding Members will help shape them before entries open.

01

Ai Narrative Film

Complete story-driven films where generative Ai is central to the visual world.

Duration 1 minute 1 second to 10 minutes
Ai Requirement Generative Ai must be central to the visual world of the film. Ai must be used in the creation of visuals, characters, environments or animation.
Judging Criteria Scored on story and impact, originality, characters and world, Ai use, and execution.
Enter this Category
02

Ai Micro Film

Short-form Ai films of 60 seconds or less.

Duration 15 seconds to 1 minute
Ai Requirement Generative Ai must be central to the visual world of the film.
Judging Criteria Scored on story and impact, originality, Ai use, and execution. Brevity and punch are key judging criteria.
Enter this Category
03

Hybrid Ai Film

Films combining live-action footage with substantial Ai transformation.

Duration 1 minute 1 second to 10 minutes
Ai Requirement Film must combine live-action footage with substantial Ai transformation. Ai must visibly and significantly alter or enhance the live footage.
Judging Criteria Scored on story and impact, originality, Ai integration quality, and execution.
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04

Ai Experimental Film

Non-narrative, abstract or avant-garde Ai filmmaking.

Duration 1 minute 1 second to 3 minutes
Ai Requirement Generative Ai must be the primary creative instrument. Non-narrative, abstract or avant-garde approaches are encouraged.
Judging Criteria Scored on creative vision, originality, Ai use, and overall impact. Conventional narrative structure is not required.
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05

Ai Music Film

Ai-created visual accompaniment to music.

Duration 1 minute 1 second to 3 minutes
Ai Requirement Ai must be used to create the visual accompaniment. The music itself may be original, licensed or Ai-generated.
Judging Criteria Scored on visual creativity, synchronisation with music, Ai use, and overall impact.
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06

Ai Brand Film

Ai-produced films created for a brand or commercial purpose.

Duration 15 seconds to 3 minutes
Ai Requirement Generative Ai must be central to the production of the film. Ai use in visuals, voiceover, or animation all qualify.
Judging Criteria Scored on creative execution, brand communication, Ai use, and overall production quality.
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07

Ai Documentary

Documentary storytelling produced with generative Ai.

Duration 1 minute 1 second to 5 minutes
Ai Requirement Generative Ai must play a substantial role in the production of the documentary. Ai may be used in narration, visuals, animation or reconstruction.
Judging Criteria Scored on storytelling, factual integrity, Ai use, and documentary craft.
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08

Ai Student Film

Open to high school students and filmmakers under 18 years old.

Duration 15 seconds to 5 minutes

A dedicated category for young South African filmmakers in high school or under the age of 18. This category celebrates the next generation of Ai cinema creators, recognising bold storytelling and creative use of Ai tools from student filmmakers across South Africa.

Eligibility Entrant must be enrolled in high school or be under 18 years of age at the time of submission. Entrants under 18 require written parental or guardian consent to enter. Proof of eligibility and consent may be requested.
Parental Consent Entrants under the age of 18 must have written consent from a parent or legal guardian. By submitting, the entrant confirms that parental consent has been obtained. SAAiFA reserves the right to request proof of consent from any entrant.
Ai Requirement Generative Ai must play a central role in the production of the film, whether in visuals, animation, sound, or narrative generation.
Judging Criteria Films are judged on creative storytelling, originality, Ai use, and execution relative to the student level of the entrant.
Enter this Category
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Be part of it from the start.

Register as a Founding Member now. Build your profile, showcase your work and be first to hear when the 2027 competition opens.

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