Presenting the TAIFF or should I say, TOAIFF 
Not a tech conference. A cinematic experience.
Link to register: GenTO Film Festival — Cinema, Evolved (email for tickets: festival@gento.ca)
Link to submit: https://filmfreeway.com/gentoaifilmfestival (by Sept 20, late deadline Oct 20)
Location: In-Person (Toronto, ON, Canada)
When: weekend December 5-6, 2026
Day 1 - Saturday 11:00am to 10:00pm
Day 2 - Sunday 2:30pm to 6:30pm
Address: Innix Town Hall (University of Toronto)
2 Sussex Ave
Toronto, ON
M5S 1J5
Canada
Description: A two-day celebration of AI-enhanced storytelling at Innis Town Hall Theatre, on the beautiful and historic University of Toronto campus downtown TO (as we call it). Short films, panels, demos, and awards for bold new cinema — local and international.
I won’t be there but my brother/co-founder Andrew Palmer will, so be sure to say “hello!” and check out his demo/films.
Join the GenTO Discord to speak with the organizers (Wilfred, Ryan, Alana, Amy, J Lee, Anson, Dennis, etc.)!
GenTO showcases local and international films and artists exploring generative AI as a creative tool, with a focus on bold storytelling, artistic craft, and the future of cinema. The festival features AI-assisted short films, experimental moving-image works, curated screenings, filmmaker Q&As, panel discussions, live demonstrations, and awards recognizing excellence in AI-enhanced storytelling.
We believe the most exciting work in this space is not about replacing filmmakers, but expanding the tools available to artists and storytellers. GenTO supports a human-first approach to AI-assisted filmmaking, grounded in artistic authorship, responsibility, and strong creative vision.
Set in Toronto, a global hub for both film culture and AI innovation, GenTO brings together artists, filmmakers, and audiences to explore the next chapter of cinema.
Awards & Prizes
GenTO will present awards recognizing excellence in AI-enhanced filmmaking, celebrating bold storytelling, artistic craft, technical innovation, and the thoughtful use of generative tools.
GenTO is a festival for artists and filmmakers exploring what cinema can become when emerging technologies meet strong artistic vision.
Winners will receive festival recognition, official laurels, and select prizes provided by GenTO and its partners. Additional in-kind support, mentorship opportunities, and technology credits may also be awarded depending on the category.
Full award and prize details will be announced at a later date but include:
Best AI Short Film
Recognizing an outstanding short film that demonstrates strong storytelling, cinematic craft, and thoughtful use of AI-enhanced production tools.
Best AI Showcase Film
Honouring a standout work that boldly demonstrates the creative possibilities of generative filmmaking and new cinematic forms.
Technical Achievement Award
Recognizing exceptional innovation in the use of AI tools, workflows, visual design, sound, editing, or production methodology.
Best Canadian Film
Celebrating an outstanding AI-enhanced film by a Canadian filmmaker or Canadian creative team.
Best Emerging Filmmaker
Recognizing a promising new voice whose work shows originality, ambition, and a strong creative vision.
Best AI Music Video
Recognizing an outstanding music video that combines music and moving image through imaginative visual storytelling and effective use of AI-enhanced production tools.
Best AI Commercial or Advertisement
Honouring an outstanding advertisement, branded film, or promotional work that demonstrates originality, audience impact, cinematic craft, and innovative use of AI tools.
Announcement & Presentation:
Awards will be presented during the festival’s closing ceremony. Select winners may also be invited to participate in a live Q&A or behind-the-scenes discussion about their creative process, production approach, and use of AI tools.