As creation evolves, evaluation moves forward.
Since its beginnings in 2024, HKAIIFF has explored how AI changes moving-image creation. For 2027, seven Unicorn Awards recognise complete works, continuing creative achievements and new narrative, audiovisual and experiential expression.
Developing appropriate ways to evaluate AI-native film remains the festival’s mission. Emotion, thought, culture and completeness still matter; the new framework helps different creative approaches be understood accurately. The 2026 awards and laureate records remain intact.
One highest honour · Three creative achievements · Three forms of expression
- Golden Unicorn Grand Prix — A complete AI-native film
- Silver Unicorn · Creative Method — A creative method demonstrated in a work
- Silver Unicorn · Digital Character — A digital character demonstrated in a work
- Silver Unicorn · Worldbuilding — A world demonstrated in a work
- Unicorn · Narrative Innovation — Narrative achievement within a work
- Unicorn · Audiovisual Innovation — Audiovisual achievement within a work
- Unicorn · Experiential Innovation — The design of viewing and participation
Clearer objects of evaluation
Films, creative achievements and expression each have a defined place. Silver awards are not film runner-up prizes.
Evidence when it matters
Submit a complete assessable work and essential information first. Specialist evidence and screening masters follow when needed.
Decisions with reasons
Jurors record observations and reasons, manage conflicts, vote under the rules and publish award explanations.
Dates, fees and a complete entry
Entries run from 1 October 2026 to 1 March 2027, closing at 23:59 Hong Kong time (UTC+8). The fee is US$99 per work, with no additional award application fee for applicable expression awards or associated Silver achievements. There are no early-bird or late-entry tiers.
Complete formal entry at hkaiiff.io. An account, draft, payment, INDEX record and accepted submission are distinct states. After supplying required information, the full work, declarations and payment, check the application confirmation and any outstanding items. Festival dates, venues and award resources will be announced separately.