Cambridge Film Festival: Policy on Artificial Intelligence


Introduction

As a long-established film festival dedicated to showcasing innovative, independent, and thought-provoking cinema, the Cambridge Film Festival (CFF) recognises the growing impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on film production and storytelling. While we acknowledge that AI technologies can offer new creative possibilities, they also raise important ethical, legal and artistic considerations. This policy outlines CFF’s approach to AI use in submitted works, based on the current best practice and the emerging discourse within the film industry.

Scope and Purpose

This policy applies to all film submissions to the Cambridge Film Festival. It is intended to:

  • Promote transparency in the use of AI in the filmmaking process.

  • Encourage ethical, responsible, and human-led creative practices.

  • Ensure fair consideration of all films.

Definitions of AI Use

For the purposes of this policy, “artificial intelligence” (AI) refers broadly to the use of algorithmic systems that simulate or automate aspects of human creativity or decision making within the filmmaking process. This includes, but is not limited to:

  • Generative AI tools that produce “original” text, visuals, or audio (e.g. large language models, text-to-image/video systems).

  • Synthetic media technologies used to simulate performances, generate voices, or recreate likenesses (e.g. deepfake techniques).

  • Machine learning based editing tools, such as those that automate cutting, colour grading, or scene detection.

  • Any system that significantly automates or transforms the creative process beyond conventional software tools.

Declaration of AI Use

CFF requires all filmmakers to declare any significant use of AI in their submissions. This includes, but is not limited to:

  • Use of AI to generate imagery, dialogue, or sound design.

  • Use of AI to simulate performances by real or fictional individuals.

  • Use of AI tools in scripting, editing, or post-production.

We understand the limitations of verification and will, to a large extent, rely on filmmakers’ honest self reporting. This approach aligns with industry wide norms at this stage of AI’s integration into creative practices.

Ethical and Legal Considerations

CFF does not accept submissions that:

  • Use AI to replicate or simulate real individuals (living or deceased) without their explicit consent or the consent of their estate.

  • Use AI generated material that violates copyright, licensing, or data protection laws.

We reserve the right to request further information or clarification from filmmakers regarding their use of AI and may disqualify films that are found to breach these principles.

Assessment and Judging

Films that involve AI will not be judged more or less favourably based solely on their use of AI. Our selection and jury process continues to prioritise originality, storytelling, technical proficiency, and emotional resonance.

Ongoing Review

We recognise that both AI technology and the surrounding discourse are rapidly evolving. In particular, issues around the use of copyrighted material and the integrity of artists’ work are central to the ongoing debate. The impact of AI on filmmaking is already being felt and will continue to reshape roles and practices across the industry. As a festival, our primary commitment remains to supporting people, creative individuals who make films, and to presenting inventive, challenging, and original work to audiences.

We are particularly concerned by the ethical implications of large-scale AI models being trained on artistic works without the consent or compensation of their creators. While this may not always breach legal boundaries, it raises serious questions about fairness, artistic ownership, and respect for creative labour. These concerns will play a crucial role in how we continue to review and refine our policies going forward.

Final note

The Cambridge Film Festival is committed to supporting filmmakers who push creative boundaries while upholding the integrity and authenticity that have long defined our programme. We encourage open dialogue around the responsible use of AI and welcome feedback from the filmmaking community as this landscape continues to develop.