​LA AI Filmathon — 48h Creative

​Learn. Connect. Create.

​One weekend. One team. One film.

​Join LA AI Filmathon, November 20–22, 2026, for a free, 48-hour AI filmmaking challenge bringing together filmmakers, students, artists, and creative technologists with professionals from the entertainment and technology industries.

​Organized by USC students, this nonprofit event combines hands-on workshops, creative collaboration, industry networking, and a chance to win a $1,000 cash prize sponsored by TapNow.

​CREATE WITH SPONSORED AI TOOLS

​Bring your imagination to life with free AI tool credits and resources from our growing technology sponsor lineup:

​Google Flow · TapNow · ElevenLabs · Meshy · Tripo

​Explore AI video generation, 3D creation, voice and sound generation, and new storytelling workflows during the 48-hour filmmaking challenge.

​Come with a team or meet your collaborators at the event. No previous AI filmmaking experience required!

​LEARN FROM INDUSTRY PROFESSIONALS

​Kick off the weekend with hands-on tool introductions, creative workshops, and conversations with filmmakers and technology professionals.

​Featured Workshop & Industry Guests

• ​Fred Grinstein — USC AI Filmmaking Professor, leading a 40-minute filmmaking workshop

• ​Yong Duk Jhun — Cinematographer of Kung Fu Panda and Unreal Engine Instructor

• ​Monica Monique — Filmmaker and Industry Guest

• ​Tony Pu — Head of Creator Community, Kling AI

• ​Brian Bartelt — Amazon MGM Studios

• ​Richard Goforth — Industry Guest

• ​Giulianna Gasparotto — Industry Guest

• ​Kevin Seo — Meshy, Filmmaker and Jury Member

​Our invited industry guests are expected to participate in jury discussions, panels, workshops, and networking opportunities. Individual appearances and schedules are being finalized.

​Additional guests and speakers will be announced soon!

​SHOWCASE YOUR WORK & GET DISCOVERED

​Create a film in 48 hours and showcase your creativity in front of filmmakers, industry professionals, and potential recruiters.

​Opportunities include:

• ​$1,000 cash prize sponsored by TapNow

• ​Finalist screenings and industry jury recognition

• ​1:1 career conversations with Google for selected filmmakers

• ​Additional AI tool subscriptions and credits for eligible award winners

• ​Potential interviews and recruiting opportunities with entertainment and technology companies

​Representatives from companies may discover and recruit emerging AI filmmaking talent.

​Whether you're a director, animator, VFX artist, storyteller, or simply curious about AI, this is your chance to create something bold and connect with people shaping the future of filmmaking.

​WEEKEND SCHEDULE

​Friday, November 20 | Opening & Workshops

​1:30–5:00 PM

​Meet fellow creators, form teams, explore sponsored AI tools, and learn from industry professionals before the challenge begins.

​November 20–22 | 48-Hour Filmmaking Challenge

​Create your film with your team using sponsored AI tools. Work remotely or collaborate wherever creativity takes you.

​Exact kickoff and submission deadlines will be announced.

​Sunday, November 22 | Film Showcase, Jury & Awards

​4:00–8:00 PM

​Watch the finalist films, hear from industry jurors, celebrate the winners, and connect with fellow filmmakers and industry guests.

​All times are Pacific Time.

​LOCATION & REGISTRATION

​Los Angeles, CA — Venue to be announced.

​Both registration options are free:

• ​Filmmaker Application — Apply to participate in the 48-hour filmmaking challenge. Approval required.

• ​Public Guest — Join the public programs, film showcase, and networking opportunities. Session access details will be announced.

​No entry fee. No limits on imagination.

​Bring your curiosity, your creative voice, and an idea worth bringing to life.

​Let's make something extraordinary in 48 hours.