The American Film Institute (AFI) announced today that it is presenting “Framing the Future,” an exclusive three-day seminar series from May 19–21, 2025, that will explore storytelling and AI. The series is designed for AFI Conservatory Fellows, Faculty, and Staff, and will take place on the AFI Campus.
“Framing the Future” will feature visionary leaders at the forefront of storytelling and technology, including Prem Akkaraju (CEO, Stability AI), Rebecca Barkin (Co-Founder & CEO of Lamina1), Rob Bredow (SVP, Creative Innovation, Digital Production & Technology at Lucasfilm Ltd.), Moran Cerf (Neuroscientist and Professor, Columbia Business School), and Yelena Rachitsky (Head of Emerging Formats, Meta).
Through hands-on tools, emerging technologies and vital conversations, this in-depth workshop will explore the evolving role of technology in cinema – and how storytellers can preserve artistic integrity in an age of AI.
At the crossroads of storytelling and technology, the inaugural “Framing the Future” will empower AFI Fellows and Faculty—first and foremost, storytellers—with a deep understanding of the ethical responsibilities and creative potential of using AI,” said Susan Ruskin, Dean of the AFI Conservatory and Executive Vice President of the American Film Institute. “Our purpose is to introduce the next generation to AI literacy in order to empower them to navigate uncertainty and to be a part of the conversation. We are excited to bring together these trailblazers who are shaping the future of storytelling and production through innovation.”
“Framing the Future” seminars will include:
May 19, 2025
The Storyteller Behind the Tech
Yelena Rachitsky, Head of Emerging Formats at Meta in conversation with AFI Dean Susan Ruskin
AI Tools for Film
Moran Cerf & Colleagues from Columbia Business School
May 20, 2025
The Future of Story
Rebecca Barkin, Co-Founder & CEO of Lamina1, in conversation with AFI Dean Susan Ruskin
Artist-Driven Innovation
Rob Bredow, SVP, Creative Innovation, Digital Production & Technology at Lucasfilm Ltd,. in conversation with AFI Dean Susan Ruskin
May 21, 2025
AI & Film: What’s Changing and What’s Not
Prem Akkaraju, CEO of Stability AI, in conversation with AFI Dean Susan Ruskin
RP Sekon
These three nights were (for me) absolutely fantastic. Learned quite a lot, so many great, thoughtful questions for our guests…it was fascinating, and…important.