SSFF & ASIA 2026 Crowns Jiin Oh as AI and Vertical Cinema Reshape Industry

The festival, themed "Cinema Engineering," confronted the industry's existential tension between human labor and automation. Japanese creator Akihiro Nishino sparked debate during the world premiere of his full-AI project, Chimney Town, by challenging the audience to reconsider the necessity of human effort when generative technology now mirrors human imagination.

Vertical filmmaking emerged as a key strategic pillar, with director Katsuyuki Motohiro labeling the 9:16 format an untapped "blue ocean" for creators. This shift is mirrored in the festival’s own programming, where the Best Thrill Award received 273 submissions specifically tailored for mobile screens.

Commercial momentum remains strong as the festival deepens its market influence. Starting July 31, 2026, The Walt Disney Company Japan will begin streaming a curated selection of 20 shorts from the festival. Meanwhile, Kodansha President Yoshinobu Noma reported that the company's 10 million yen Cinema Creators Lab has successfully propelled indie filmmakers to selections at more than 60 international festivals, cementing the event's role as a vital launchpad for global cinematic talent.