SMPTE's President Rich Welsh and Executive Director Sally Ann D'Amato are joined by Barco's Dan Huerta for an overview of the day.

  Sally-Ann D’Amato

As artificial intelligence reshapes every corner of the media and entertainment landscape, this panel dives straight into the practical realities of implementation—no hype, no fluff, just real stories from the builders on the front lines.

Hear from industry veterans and innovators who are actively using AI and machine learning across cinematic production, animation, and trend forecasting to transform how studios create and manage content. Panelists will share their successes (and failures), discuss the emergent roles AI is creating, and reveal which jobs might be at risk.

We’ll also take on the urgent copyright challenges posed by generative models, with insights into how studios, creators, and the broader community are addressing these high-stakes questions. Whether you’re a filmmaker, technologist, or content strategist, expect candid dialogue, actionable takeaways, and a clear-eyed glimpse into the exciting—and sometimes daunting—future of AI in cinema.

  Yves Bergquist

  Program Director, AI in Media

  Entertainment Technology Center

  Albert Bozesan

  Creative Director, AI Media

  Storybook Studios

  Eric Shamlin

  CEO

  Secret Level

How can AI transform filmmaking, and how should creators adapt to this evolving landscape? In this session we explore the Film Institute’s three-pillar approach: Empowering Filmmakers with AI-driven workflows that free storytellers from tedious tasks; Partnering with AI to guide its development toward ethical, creative solutions; and Rethinking Education to equip rising professionals with crucial technical skills and ethical perspectives.

Through real-world case studies, we’ll reveal how practical AI tools can streamline production, inspire innovation, and enhance collaboration between artists and technologists for cinematic storytelling.

  Chaitanya Chinchlikar

  Vice President, Business Head & Chief Technology Officer

  Whistling Woods International

Discover the latest breakthroughs in HDR cinema projection with Lightsteering technology, featuring real-world content, conversion workflows, and leading industry tools like ACES, Resolve, Baselight, and Colorfront. This session covers insightful case studies, pilot program findings, and essential education on topics such as Rec. 2020 vs. P3 color spaces, brightness levels, and contrast handling. We’ll also address critical considerations for energy efficiency, sustainability, and evolving building codes. Expect compelling visuals, hands-on demonstrations, and an exclusive preview of next-generation cinema experiences

  Anders Ballestad

  Head of Content & Studio Relations

  Barco

  Dan Huerta

  Vice President of Studio Relations and Technology Insights

  Barco

  Joachim Zell

  Head of HDR Content Workflow

  Barco

The hype for AI seems to peak higher every day, and the landscape for AI in creativity is evolving at lightning speeds. Join us for a dynamic and insightful look at how the latest developments are being deployed in moviemaking from script to screen.

The session will feature a round of demos with new tools used in various phases, from pre-production to post and focuses on the efficiency and creative gains being made in almost every phase of cinema content.

This will be followed by a panel of experts who will discuss the evolution of AI in cinema and what they see as the challenges, opportunities and what might be next.

  Richard Welsh

  Senior Vice President of Innovation

  Deluxe

As artificial intelligence permeates every aspect of our life and industry, media professionals must adapt to stay ahead of rapidly evolving market demands. This forward-looking SMPTE session explores how today’s AI-driven breakthroughs—such as real-time translation and dubbing, automated content generation, and context-aware interactive experiences—are transforming live broadcasting. Learn what industry leaders are working on, with examples ranging from multilingual news delivery to immersive viewer engagement strategies, consider the possibilities and pitfalls of integrating these tools, and listen to fresh approaches that keep your broadcasts relevant and compelling in today’s world.

  Andre Roelofs

  Founder and CTO

  Eurora Labs

  Jan Weigner

  President

  Cinegy

  Tab Butler

  M&E Advisor

  Cinegy