AMC Theatres has refused to screen an AI-generated short film, “Thanksgiving Day,” blocking its planned national theatrical run. The film, created by filmmaker Igor Alferov using tools like Gemini 3.1, won the Frame Forward AI Animated Film Festival. Its distributor, Screenvision Media, had announced the two-week run as a prize without confirming theater participation. This move occurs as Hollywood’s conflict over AI intensifies, with industry coalitions forming and major stars seeking to trademark their likenesses against unauthorized AI replication.
AMC Theatres has blocked an AI-generated short film from appearing on its screens. The nation’s largest theatrical exhibitor said it will not participate in the planned rollout of “Thanksgiving Day,” an award-winning animated short.
The film was slated to appear as part of pre-show advertising supplied through Screenvision Media. AMC stated it was not involved in the creation of the content and has informed Screenvision its locations will not participate.
The short was created by Kazakhstani filmmaker Igor Alferov using AI tools including Gemini 3.1 and Nana Banana Pro. Alferov said, “For me, AI is not a replacement for creativity, but a powerful ‘exoskeleton’ for the imagination.”
The backlash lands as Hollywood strengthens its war over AI. A new industry coalition, the Creators Coalition on AI, has launched with backing from figures including Natalie Portman and Guillermo del Toro.
Actors are taking individual action, with Matthew McConaughey recently securing federal trademarks on his voice and likeness. He stated at a public forum, “It’s coming. It’s already here. Don’t deny it… Own yourself. Voice, likeness, et cetera. Trademark it.”
The union SAG-AFTRA, which struck over AI protections in 2023, has condemned AI-generated performers as a threat. It has warned producers they may not use synthetic performers without complying with contractual obligations.
