MIXED*
A FILM & STORY SHOWCASE
INTRODUCING MIXED*
A first-of-its-kind film and story showcase—where cinematic craft meets generative AI. Analog meets algorithm. Tradition meets technology.
A celebration of storytelling in all its evolving forms—a space for curious creators to experiment, collaborate, and reimagine the future of film, content, and media.
*FEELINGS *PERSPECTIVES *BACKGROUNDS *EMOTIONS *SIGNALS *MESSAGES *REALITIES *NARRATIVES *CULTURES *DISCIPLINES *FREQUENCIES *FORMATS *IDENTITIES *INTENTIONS *VIEWS *MATERIALS *MEDIA
*FEELINGS *PERSPECTIVES *BACKGROUNDS *EMOTIONS *SIGNALS *MESSAGES *REALITIES *NARRATIVES *CULTURES *DISCIPLINES *FREQUENCIES *FORMATS *IDENTITIES *INTENTIONS *VIEWS *MATERIALS *MEDIA
FILM & STORY SUBMISSION DEADLINE — JANUARY 5, 2026
HOW IT WORKS ↓
SHARE YOUR STORY
We’re seeking curious creators ready to jump in with MIXED* and submit a film to our upcoming showcase. Share your story and take the first step with us.
JOIN FUTURE STORY LAB
Explore the tools, workflows, and hybrid approaches shaping AI-augmented storytelling. From concept to post, our sessions will help you create with confidence.
ATTEND THE SHOWCASE
This FW25-26, we’ll come together for the first-ever MIXED* event on February 4, 2026. Join the waitlist below to stay updated when event registration go live.
SHOWCASE VENUE ↓
TOMORROW
THEATER
PORTLAND STAGE
GLOBAL COMMUNITY
db clay is thrilled to partner with AI Portland to bring the MIXED* showcase to life—an aligned organization dedicated to making AI more accessible, inclusive, and creatively empowering for everyone.
WELCOME TO STORY LAB
A WORKSHOP SERIES PRESENTED BY MIXED*
Part classroom, part accelerator, part creative playground. Here we explore the future of film, content, and media in the age of AI—through hands-on experiments, mixed-format sessions, and community-led workshops.
The goal is simple: inspire, educate, and empower creatives and technologists alike. From tool tutorials to creative provocations and film fundamentals, STORY LAB is where curious minds come together to test ideas, learn new workflows, and reimagine stories.
OUR SPONSORS
Could
this
be
you?
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
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MIXED* is a Film & Story Showcase—a platform where filmmakers, mixed-media artists, and creative technologists come together to experiment, collaborate, and share stories. It’s where cinematic craft meets generative AI tools, and where storytelling in all its evolving forms takes center stage.
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Anyone can submit a story for consideration in the showcase. Whether you’re a seasoned director, indie filmmaker, AI content creator, or first-time explorer—you’re welcome. Teams can be just you, or a group of collaborators. Cross-discipline projects are especially encouraged, since the magic often lives at the intersections.
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The main Film & Story Showcase will take place on February 4, 2026 in Portland, Oregon at the Tomorrow Theater. In the spirit of co-creation, we’re shaping MIXED*—feedback on programming for the event is welcomed.
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The first step is to submit your project via FilmFreeway. Stories should ideally combine traditional filmmaking and AI in creative ways. Submissions are due January 5, 2026 with OFFICIAL SELECTIONS to be announced January 15, 2026. You can expect regular updates from our planning team between now and then.
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Don’t be scared by the word “film.” Above all, we’re looking for compelling stories. Short narratives, music videos, experimental films, animations, horror shorts, or spec ads are all welcome. Surprise us with something new. Because of the live format, we encourage projects between 1–15 minutes in length.
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Cross-border collaboration is highly encouraged. Selected filmmakers are encouraged to attend the live showcase in Portland, Oregon (not required, but highly encouraged). Travel and lodging are at the filmmaker’s expense.
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We’re happy to share creative prompts and playful constraints to spark ideas, but you’re free to take your story in any direction. Think of the theme as MIXED* itself—where real cameras, generative tools, and human/machine collaboration can merge in unexpected ways.
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A juried panel will review submissions and select 4–6 standout teams to present live. All projects, however, will eventually be featured online. Work-in-progress is welcome—whether that’s a polished short, a prototype, or even a trailer. We value ideas more than perfection.
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Leading up to the showcase, our plan is to host virtual workshops and STORY LAB sessions covering tools, workflows, and creative development. If you’re an expert in one of these areas, we’d love to hear from you about hosting a workshop.
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Five OFFICIAL SELECTIONS will be chosen for screening, each receiving a signature MIXED* laurel and a spotlight at the live showcase on February 4, 2026, at Tomorrow Theatre in Portland, Oregon.
One film will receive THE ASTERISK AWARD, recognizing the story that best embodies the ethos of MIXED*—its emotional depth, creative curiosity, and the fusion of human and technological artistry that define this new cinematic era.