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SSFF & ASIA 2025: International Short Film Festival and AI Conference

The Short Short Film Festival & Asia (SSFF & ASIA), recognized by the Academy Awards, is set to kick off its autumn International Short Film Festival from October 22, 2025. A highlight of the festival will be an international conference titled "The Future of AI in Filmmaking: Exploring Creativity, Collaboration, and Ethics," which will gather leading filmmakers and AI experts for enlightening discussions.

The festival has seen a significant rise in AI-themed short films, with approximately 275 AI-related submissions in recent years among the 5,000 films from around the globe. This growth reflects the burgeoning interest in how AI technologies can enhance creativity in cinema while also raising important ethical questions.

A Gathering of Experts

At this year's conference, a diverse group of ten panelists will be sharing their insights, including prominent figures from various countries:

• - Takashi Kushida from Japan, celebrated for his full AI short film, "Last Dream," which recently won the top prize at the Bucheon International Fantastic Film Festival.
• - Shin Cheol, director of the Bucheon International Fantastic Film Festival and producer of influential Korean films including the cult classic "My Sassy Girl."
• - Marcel Barsotti, a composer and filmmaker from Germany, who will present his new AI short film, "Imperia," during the event.
• - Oscar Pérez, an emerging talent from Mexico known for his AI-generated works, will also share his unique perspectives.

This collection of industry pioneers promises a rich dialogue about the real-life applications of AI in film production, as well as the ethical implications that arise from these advancements.

Event Highlights

The conference will not only cover theoretical discussions but will also include the Asian premiere of Barsotti's groundbreaking 36-minute AI sci-fi film, "Imperia." The film tells the story of a genius scientist uncovering a shocking truth about humanity's relationship with an ancient alien civilization. This event will take place at the Akasaka Intercity Conference Center on October 26, 2025, and is part of Japan's broader initiative to celebrate culture and technology through the "Japan Expo 2.0."

Exploring New Frontiers

In addition to film screenings, the festival will also feature interactive workshops and talks focusing on how AI can democratize filmmaking, making it accessible for creators worldwide. With industry leaders like Douglas Montgomery, a strategic advisor with extensive media experience, and Usain Dembel Sow, who aims to leverage AI in storytelling, the event will provide valuable networking opportunities and insights into future trends.

Besides the main conference panel discussions, specific focus sessions will delve into the collaboration between creative professionals and AI, exemplifying how this technology enhances narrative depth, visual aesthetics, and the overall viewer experience.

Conclusion

At SSFF & ASIA 2025's international conference, attendees will have the chance to engage with the concepts of creativity, collaboration, and ethics as shaped by AI's integration into film. With an extensive lineup from across the globe—each contributing unique perspectives and experiences—this conference heralds a pivotal moment in the evolution of cinema and its relationship with technology.

Tickets for the conference are priced at ¥1,000 and can be booked online through the festival’s official website. Join us for what promises to be an enlightening exploration of the future of filmmaking through AI's lens.