Overview
The International Film Festival of India (IFFI) 2025 featured a masterclass titled “The New AI Cinema: A Discourse on Generative AI and Large Language Models (LLMs)”. This session brought together experts from technology and cinema to discuss the impact of AI on filmmaking. The event took place on November 25, 2025, as part of the #IFFIWood program.
Key Participants
- Shri Shekhar Kapur: Internationally acclaimed filmmaker
- Shri Shankar Ramakrishnan: Noted technologist
- Shri V. Muralitharan: AI expert
Key Developments
AI as a Democratic Medium
Shri Shekhar Kapur emphasized that AI is transforming the film industry by democratizing access and removing traditional barriers. He shared an anecdote about his cook creating a script for Mr. India 2 using ChatGPT, illustrating the accessibility of AI tools.
AI vs. VFX
Shri Kapur clarified the difference between VFX (Visual Effects) and AI. VFX involves creating or manipulating visuals digitally, while AI uses machine-learning models to automate, enhance, or generate elements of the filmmaking process.
Practical Applications of AI
Shri Shankar Ramakrishnan and Shri V. Muralitharan demonstrated how AI tools like ChatGPT and Google Gemini can assist filmmakers in scripting, storyboarding, and designing shot descriptions. They showcased their AI-assisted film “The Turban and The Rock”, written by Raja Rao, as an example.
AI in Documentary Filmmaking
The panel highlighted AI's potential in supporting documentary filmmaking, archival restoration, and film education. They screened an AI-generated short documentary titled “The Lost Legends”.
Human Emotion in Cinema
Shri Shekhar Kapur stressed that human emotion remains at the core of cinema. While AI can assist in various processes, real artists are essential for conveying genuine feeling and depth.
IFFI Details
The International Film Festival of India (IFFI), established in 1952, is South Asia’s oldest and largest film festival. It is jointly hosted by the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC), Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, and the Entertainment Society of Goa (ESG). The 56th edition of IFFI, held from November 20–28, showcases a diverse range of films and innovations.
Exam Relevance
This article is relevant to GS3 (Science and Technology), focusing on the applications of AI in the film industry. It also touches upon GS1 (Indian Art and Culture) through the discussion of Indian cinema and the role of IFFI. Additionally, it relates to GS2 (Government Policies) concerning the promotion of film and creative industries.
Important Facts for Prelims
- Event: Masterclass on ‘The New AI Cinema’ at IFFI 2025
- Key Speakers: Shekhar Kapur, Shankar Ramakrishnan, V. Muralitharan
- AI Tools Mentioned: ChatGPT, Google Gemini
- AI-Assisted Film: The Turban and The Rock
- Hosting Organizations: NFDC, Ministry of I&B, ESG