The global AI film contest in Dubai awarded its top prize to Tunisian filmmaker Zoubeir Jlassi. The global AI film contest offered a $1 million award for short films created using generative artificial intelligence. The ceremony took place during the 1 Billion Followers Summit in Dubai and marked the first edition of the competition.
Global AI Film Contest Winner Announced
Zoubeir Jlassi won the global AI film contest with his short film Lily. The award was presented on the second day of the summit. Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al-Maktoum attended the ceremony and presented the prize. The contest was launched in collaboration with Google and its AI platforms. Organizers confirmed the competition focused on storytelling created primarily with artificial intelligence tools.
AI Tools Used in the Winning Film
The film Lily was produced entirely with generative AI systems. Jlassi used Google Gemini, Veo 3, Imagen, and Flow during production. The nine-minute film follows a solitary archivist affected by guilt after a hit-and-run incident. A doll becomes a key element in the story and leads the character toward confession and accountability. The filmmaker completed the project within one month. The film was named after his daughter and drew inspiration from personal experiences.
Global AI Film Contest Selection Process
The global AI film contest received 3,500 submissions from 16 countries. Each entry needed to rely on at least 70 percent generative AI tools powered by Google technology. Organizers carried out technical checks and AI verification reviews. A jury of filmmakers and technology specialists evaluated entries across several stages. Twelve films were shortlisted based on narrative structure, visual execution, ethical standards, and AI usage. Public voting later selected five finalists.
Finalists and Summit Screening
Four additional films reached the final stage. These came from creators in the Philippines, South Korea, Egypt, and the United States. All five finalist films were screened during the first day of the summit. The 1 Billion Followers Summit brings together creators, filmmakers, and digital professionals. The event focuses on media innovation, technology, and global storytelling through emerging tools.
