More than 80 students, staff, and faculty from multiple California State University campuses converged at Cal State LA for the AI in Filmmaking Symposium, a full-day event exploring the rapidly evolving landscape of artificial intelligence in visual storytelling.
The Feb. 20 symposium was organized by Cal State LA Professor Nidhin Patel of the Department of Television, Film, and Media Studies (TVFM), with support from the Film Productions Club.
“AI is quickly reshaping the business and craft of visual storytelling,” said Professor Patel. “Various AI tools are being integrated into all aspects of filmmaking by production companies of all sizes.”
He noted, “It is increasingly clear that artists with no knowledge of these tools might find themselves at a disadvantage. Our goal was to give students structured opportunities to build skills in this area and explore the resources AI offers to visual storytellers.”
The symposium opened with welcome remarks from Dean Stephen Trzaskoma of the College of Arts and Letters at Cal State LA, followed by the session, “Supercharge Your Visuals with GenAI,” led by DGA Director and Advent Films Executive Producer AJ Bleyer, as well as a session on “Fundamental Ethics of AI Use as a Student and a Creative Professional,” presented by Professor Jessica Santos, director of sustainability at Sound of Earth.
Professor April Brown, a Cal State LA faculty member in attendance, said, “The AI symposium provided our faculty and students with a survey of this rapidly changing field, firsthand experience with tools used by today’s film and television professionals, and an exploration of the ethical implications involved.”
She added, “It also offered guidance on practical tools students can use to improve efficiency, workflow, and creativity, making them more marketable, nimble, and prepared to create and implement their vision.”
The daylong event featured 11 speakers, four hands-on workshops, and three demonstrations from representatives of assistive and generative AI-based applications. Participants gained practical insight into how AI is reshaping every stage of filmmaking—from concept development and preproduction to postproduction and distribution.
“This was a massive undertaking, and an important one,” Patel said. “More than 80% of survey respondents said events like this ensure that our students stay informed and keep in step with the times.”
TVFM student Amirah Myles, one of the event’s participants, described the symposium as an informative experience that expanded her understanding of how artificial intelligence is evolving within the film industry.
“Hearing a variety of perspectives allowed me to think more critically about how AI can be used responsibly and creatively,” she said. “The event also created opportunities to connect with speakers and other students interested in emerging technology and its impact on our careers.”
The symposium concluded with live demonstrations in the Music Hall, marking a successful day of learning, collaboration, and forward-looking discussion about the role of artificial intelligence in media production.
Sponsored by the CSU Entertainment Alliance and Associated Students, Inc., the symposium reflects Cal State LA’s commitment to fostering systemwide collaboration and preparing students for leadership in an increasingly technology-driven media landscape.
Photo: Attendees engage in a live demonstration showcasing how AI tools can enhance and transform visual storytelling during the AI in Filmmaking Symposium at Cal State LA. (Credit: Asael Gutierrez/Cal State LA)
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California State University, Los Angeles is the premier comprehensive public university in the heart of Los Angeles. Cal State LA is ranked number one in the United States for the upward mobility of its students. Cal State LA is dedicated to engagement, service, and the public good, offering nationally recognized programs in science, the arts, business, criminal justice, engineering, nursing, education, and the humanities. Founded in 1947, the University serves more than 22,000 students and has more than 260,000 distinguished alumni.
