OSIF AI Usage Policy

Purpose

The Okanagan Society of Independent Filmmaking (OSIF) is committed to celebrating the creativity, skill, and human artistry that center around the craft of filmmaking.  As artificial intelligence (AI) becomes increasingly integrated into creative processes, OSIF recognizes the need to define fair and transparent guidelines that respect artistic integrity.

OSIF understands that AI is ever evolving, and can be used as a supportive creative tool, for example, in pre-visualization, planning, or post-production enhancement, and not a replacement to human artistry.

To ensure transparency, fairness, and integrity within our events, OSIF is exploring policy options regarding the use of Generative AI in film submissions for OSIF-run festivals and competitions, including HorrorFest, Okanagan Screen Awards, Snakebite 5-Day, and others.

Definition: What is Generative AI?

Generative AI is a type of artificial intelligence that creates new content - such as text, images, music, code, or video - based on patterns learned from large datasets. It works by taking a user’s prompt or input and generating a statistically likely and “original-seeming” response that can mimic human creativity.

Unlike traditional AI, which follows strict rules to perform predefined tasks, generative AI produces novel outputs. For example:

• A traditional AI might colour correct a clip, stabilize footage, auto tune a voice, sort footage, etc.

• While a generative AI could create a completely new shot, voice, or visual effect from scratch.

Context and Limitations

As a small non-profit organization, OSIF operates primarily on volunteer time and limited resources. We therefore would rely on an honour system regarding compliance with any AI-related policies that may be adopted (see below). OSIF does not have the capacity to investigate or verify whether generative AI has been used in the making of a submitted film.

Our goal is to establish clear expectations that align with our community’s values while trusting filmmakers to act with honesty and integrity in their film submissions.

Whatever policy OSIF adopts, a review process will be established to ensure it remains relevant, fair, and adaptable as technology and industry standards evolve.

Policy Options Under Consideration

The following options represent different possible approaches to managing the use of generative AI in OSIF-run film festivals. Variations of these options are being used by other festivals and film organizations around the world, and are being put forward to OSIF membership for consultation.

Option 1: Full Ban

Any film that uses generative AI in any form will not be eligible for submission to OSIF-run film festivals.

Pros:

• Strongest protection of human-made artistry

• Clear, simple enforcement

Cons:

• Limits creative experimentation

• Difficult to monitor or verify compliance

• Could limit filmmakers’ creative possibilities and place them at a disadvantage compared to peers and festivals around the world.

Option 2: Submission Allowed, Awards Ineligible

Films that use generative AI may still be screened but must include a disclaimer in their credits noting that generative AI was used. These films would not be eligible for any award categories.

Pros:

• Allows participation while maintaining fairness in judging

• Transparent for audiences and other filmmakers

Cons:

• May discourage some creators who use AI as a minor tool

• Hard to define where AI influence begins or ends

Option 3: Partial Disqualification by Category

Films using generative AI may still be screened and considered for most awards, but would be ineligible for any specific categories in which generative AI was used (e.g., Best Visual Effects, Best Writing, etc.).

Pros:

• Nuanced and flexible

• Recognizes hybrid workflows common in modern filmmaking

Cons:

• Requires filmmakers to self-report usage accurately

• Adds complexity to the judging process

• Could disqualify otherwise eligible films from awards, that only used minor or subtle AI as a tool

Option 4: Full Eligibility with Disclosure

Films using generative AI must include a disclaimer in their credits, but will remain eligible for all awards.

Pros:

• Promotes transparency without restricting artistic freedom

• Simplest to implement

Cons:

• May raise fairness concerns for human-created work

• Relies heavily on filmmakers’ honesty and could lead to inconsistent disclosures or confusion around what qualifies as “AI use.”
  

Option 5: No Restrictions

No limitations or disclosure requirements regarding generative AI use.

Pros:

• Simplifies administration and encourages inclusivity

• Treats AI as a valid modern filmmaking tool

Cons:

• Undermines human craftsmanship emphasis

• May alienate traditional filmmakers or audiences

Next Steps

On Sunday, November 16th at 1pm, OSIF will host a Virtual Town Hall via Zoom for OSIF Members Only (click here to become an OSIF Member).  OSIF will present these options, then open the floor for people to give their opinions and feedback for a maximum of 2 minutes per person. The town hall will be moderated by an OSIF representative to keep conversation respectful and in-line.

To register for the Virtual Town Hall please click the button below.
Register Here
Registration is free, but only OSIF Members may attend.

Soon after the Town Hall, a poll will go out to all OSIF Members for their preferred option above.

OSIF will review the results internally to determine which approach best aligns with our community’s values and mission.

A finalized policy will be adopted and announced to the public at our earliest convenience.