special: TCLtv+, the streaming service from the Chinese electronics group that owns TCL Chinese Theater, is launching a new, AI-focused accelerator for film and television creatives.
The shorts program, called TCL Film Machine, provides development, financial and production support to working creators who want to improve and elevate their films using AI tools. It will start with five entries this year. Grants start at $25k but can increase significantly based on merit and project.
“With the explosive growth in AI, there is a desperate need for creators who know how to use AI tools to tell their stories. Currently, there are limited avenues for industry professionals to further develop their skills. offers,” said Streamer, who recently launched a production studio that will support the projects. A global production team of animators, VFX experts and AI engineers, customizing the latest AI tech, will help producers, writers and actors in the program create premium content, it said.
Filmmaker Dave Clark, an early AI adapter, will be a key program advisor. Clark creates advertising, immersive engagements, and brand spots for major companies (Snapchat, Hewlett Packard, Pepsi, Lobos Tequila, Intel). He has creatively partnered with actors and activists Michael Ealy, George Clooney, the late Michael K. Williams, and The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, and speaks frequently about AI, including at the Cannes and Berlin film festivals.
AI in entertainment is now highly, intensely controversial, but it is argued that it empowers creators.
The accelerator's first class will have access to the latest AI technology and tools, animators, a budget, and a platform to release their film to audiences – TCL Chinese Theaters and streamer TCLtv+. The application, which is open from June 20 to July 20, is free and mid-level creatives or above working in TV and film are encouraged to apply. Target projects are five minutes long but can go up to ten. The program is looking for proven filmmakers with experience in traditional storytelling in short or long form who want to explore AI to bring their vision to life.
“There is currently no pipeline for professional AI film and television. We are trying to incubate and build an AI creative community. There is passion, demand and excitement for AI on the creative scene and We want to expand this potential for growth through access and opportunity,” said Chris Regina, TCL's Chief Content Officer.
Five projects is the only working number and the film machine can support additional projects.
TCLtv+ Studios has several series and specials in the development pipeline, including AI and more traditional scripted and unscripted projects. Collaboration on all projects will extend beyond the TCLtv+ Studios teams and include Guild writers and actors, as well as top Hollywood talent, it said. In April, TCLtv+ Studios launched the trailer for its first AI love story, Next stop Paris.