Exclusive: TCLtv+, the streaming service from the Chinese electronics group that owns TCL Chinese Theatres, is launching a new AI-focused accelerator for film and TV creatives.
Called TCL Film Machine, the short film program will provide development, funding, and production support to working creators who want to use AI tools to enhance and improve their films. It will begin with five applicants this year. Grants will start at $25,000 but can increase significantly depending on the talent and project.
“The explosive growth of AI has created an urgent need for creators who know how to apply AI tools to enrich storytelling. Currently, the industry has limited avenues for experts to further their expertise,” said the streamer, which recently launched a production studio to support the project. The global production team of animators, VFX experts and AI engineers who customize the latest AI technology will help show producers, writers and actors create premium content.
Dave Clark, a filmmaker and early adopter of AI, will serve as a key advisor to the program. Clark has produced commercials, immersive engagements and brand spots for major corporations (Snapchat, Hewlett-Packard, Pepsi, Lobos Tequila and Intel), has had creative partnerships with actors and activists Michael Ealy, George Clooney, the late Michael K. Williams and the Leadership Council on Civil and Human Rights, and is a frequent speaker on AI at festivals including the Cannes and Berlin.
While AI in entertainment is currently a hotly debated topic, he argues that AI will empower creators.
The accelerator's first class will have access to the latest AI technology and tools, animators, budgets, and a platform to expose their films to audiences: TCL Chinese Theatre and streamer TCLtv+. Applications are free from June 20 to July 20, and mid-career or older creators working in TV and film are welcome to apply. Eligible projects are five minutes long, but can be up to 10 minutes long. The program seeks proven filmmakers with experience in short or feature-length traditional storytelling who want to leverage AI to bring their vision to life.
“Currently, there is no pipeline for professional AI film or TV, and we want to foster and build the AI creative community. The passion, demand and excitement for AI to break through in the creative scene is there, and we want to activate that growth potential through access and opportunity,” said Chris Regina, chief content officer at TCL.
The five projects are just an actual number of projects, and Film Machine may support additional projects.
TCLtv+ Studios is developing several series and specials, including AI and traditional scripted and unscripted projects. Collaboration on all projects will extend beyond the TCLtv+ Studios team to include Guild writers and actors as well as major Hollywood talent. In April, TCLtv+ Studios released the trailer for its first AI love story. Next destination: Paris.
