Entries
SAAiFA's first film competition opens for submissions on 01 January 2027.
Key dates for 2027.
What you need to know before entering.
Who can enter
- Open to all South African residents
- Individuals or teams may enter
- Student category open to high school students or those under 18
- No professional experience required
Ai requirement
- Generative Ai must play a central role in production
- Ai use in visuals, animation, sound or narrative all qualify
- You must declare which Ai tools were used
- Hybrid Ai films (live action + Ai) are welcome
Submission rules
- One film per category, maximum 8 entries total
- Submit via unlisted YouTube link
- Film must not have been commercially released before submission
- Finalists must supply a master file on request
Originality
- Film must be an original work by the entrant
- No plagiarism or unauthorised use of existing IP
- Music used must be original or properly licensed
- Ai-generated content must be original output, not repurposed work
Judging
- Three-tier process: community screening, expert judges, prestige jury
- Community members score all submissions first, and the top 15 to 20% advance
- Expert panel shortlists 5 nominees per category
- You must complete your screening assignments to remain eligible
Language and format
- Films may be in any South African language
- English subtitles required for non-English films
- No minimum resolution, but HD recommended
- Duration rules vary by category (see below)
The film categories.
Each category has its own duration limits and specific rules. Click a category to read the full requirements.
Ai Narrative Film
Complete story-driven films where generative Ai is central to the visual world.
Up to 10 minutes → 02Ai Micro Film
Short-form Ai films of 60 seconds or less.
Up to 1 minute → 03Hybrid Ai Film
Films combining live-action footage with substantial Ai transformation.
Up to 10 minutes → 04Ai Experimental Film
Non-narrative, abstract or avant-garde Ai filmmaking.
Up to 3 minutes → 05Ai Music Film
Ai-created visual accompaniment to music.
Up to 3 minutes → 06Ai Brand Film
Ai-produced films created for a brand or commercial purpose.
Up to 3 minutes → 07Ai Documentary
Documentary storytelling produced with generative Ai.
Up to 5 minutes → 08Ai Student Film
Open to high school students and filmmakers under 18 years old.
Up to 5 minutes →New to Ai filmmaking?
Our Resources section has guides on Ai tools, filmmaking tips and everything you need to get started. Whether you are an experienced filmmaker or picking up a camera for the first time, we have you covered.
Join the community today.
Create your profile now, connect with other Ai creatives and be ready when entries open in 2027.