MIXED*
A FILM SHOWCASE
FEBRUARY 4, 2026 | PORTLAND, OR
INTRODUCING MIXED*
A platform exploring creativity, storytelling, and identity in the age of artificial intelligence.
*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
BY THE NUMBERS
211 FILMS SUBMITTED
44 COUNTRIES INCLUDED
5 OFFICIAL SELECTIONS
1 PORTLAND SHOWCASE
THE VENUE
TOMORROW
THEATER
PORTLAND STAGE
GLOBAL COMMUNITY
THE JOURNEY
THE SUBMISSIONS
Creators around the world answered our open call—submitting 211 hybrid films via FilmFreeway that live in the space between cinematic craft and emerging tech.
THE STORY LAB
Through worksessions, we explored hybrid tools and workflows shaping how films are made today—creating space to learn, test, and build with confidence.
THE SHOWCASE
On February 4, 2026, we come together at the Tomorrow Theater in PDX for the first-ever MIXED* film showcase—an evening of films, conversation, and reflection.
OUR SUPPORTERS
THE PANEL
“FILL IN THE BLANK”
As part of our MIXED* film showcase, we’ll convene a panel of industry leaders, thinkers, and creators. Education and open communication are core pillars of MIXED*, and this conversation is designed for people who are curious, collaborative, and willing to sit with complexity. Together, they’ll explore what it means to tell stories as the future rages on.
MEDIA RESOURCE CENTER
PRESS KIT
PRESS RELEASE
DOWNLOAD ASSETS
AND MORE…
WELCOME TO STORY LAB
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.
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 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 welcomed). Please note 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 Selection Committee will review submissions and select 5 standout film to showcase live. 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 the 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.