AMC Theatres has opted out of screening an award-winning AI-generated short following online backlash, underscoring growing resistance to AI filmmaking in mainstream cinema venues. (Source: Image by RR)

Cinema Chain Opts Out of Screening Award-Winning AI Film in Pre-Show Slot

AMC Theatres has declined to screen an award-winning AI-generated short film following online criticism over its planned nationwide pre-show run. The short, Thanksgiving Day, won the inaugural Frame Forward AI Animated Film Festival and was slated for a two-week theatrical run as part of its prize package. However, after backlash erupted on social media, AMC announced it would not participate in the screening initiative.

The controversy, as noted in the hollywoodreporter.com, stemmed from the perception that AMC was embracing AI-generated films in its core programming. In reality, the short was scheduled to appear during the 20-minute advertising pre-show managed by Screenvision Media, a third-party company that supplies content to multiple theater chains. AMC clarified it was not involved in producing or selecting the content and said fewer than 30% of its U.S. locations would have carried it before opting out entirely.

It remains unclear whether other theater chains will proceed with screening the film. Festival co-organizers defended the project, arguing that AI-generated storytelling represents an evolving cinematic language. They noted that while the national theatrical run may be truncated, the short will be adapted for immersive venues under development in New York, emphasizing that traditional exhibition models must evolve alongside new technologies.

While AI-generated shorts have appeared in specialty screenings — including Runway’s 2025 AI Film Festival in select IMAX theaters — this would likely have marked the first nationwide exposure for a narrative AI film in mainstream cinemas. The episode highlights the tension between emerging AI filmmaking tools and Hollywood’s established creative ecosystem, as theaters weigh innovation against public and industry skepticism.

read more at hollywoodreporter.com