How could AI shape your next feature film? And what could you achieve with the right tools, training and support?
A new innovation initiative – Lab to Slate – is looking for eight independent filmmakers from across the UK to join a two-year programme. Supported by the BFI, participants will develop a real screen project using emerging ethical and safe AI tools, within a framework providing, mentoring, training, and legal guidance along the way.
Studios and streamers are building AI into how they make work. Independent filmmakers often can’t: the tools cost money, the legal and ethical questions are unclear, and the learning curve is steep. Lab to Slate will give you the time, access, and support to find out what these tools can and can’t do for your own project, on your own terms.
As this is rooted in safe and ethnical use of AI, which prioritises protecting the ownership of IP, participants will keep full creative control and ownership of their own work throughout. You are not at risk of, handingyour project over to machine learning. Instead, you will test, question, and shape how these tools might serve independent filmmaking, as a co-researcher.
We’re particularly keen to hear from creatives under-represented in the screen industries and filmmakers working outside London and the South East, with places reserved across all four UK nations.
The programme is designed to fit around freelance work and other commitments, with delivery primarily online. Applications can be made in writing or by video, with access support available throughout.
Lab to Slate is funded by the BFI Innovation Challenge Fund, awarding National Lottery Good Cause funding. It is led by Dr Kingsley Marshall at Falmouth University’s Screen Technologies centre, with delivery partners Screen Cornwall, Charismatic Studio, and CinePro Lab.
Please join us Monday 23rd, 1.30 – 2.30pm for an online briefing session, to find out more about the opportunity and to ask any questions about the programme and application process. The online session will be captioned and recorded.
Applications close Midday Monday 7 December 2026.
Read the full application guidance for eligibility, programme details and selection criteria, then apply below.
Questions? Contact info@screencornwall.com to discuss the programme, check your eligibility or request the application in another format.
Lab to Slate is supported by the BFI, awarding funds from the National Lottery.
Screen Cornwall recognises the opportunities and challenges of artificial intelligence and is committed to its responsible and ethical use. Our internal AI policy guides how we use these technologies, with a focus on human creativity, transparency and respect for data protection and intellectual property.
