AMC Theatres Blocks AI Short Film From Screening in Pre-Show Advertising
Decrypt
by Vismaya VFebruary 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
AMC Theatres has decided not to screen "Thanksgiving Day," an award-winning AI-generated short film, during its pre-show advertisements. The film, created by Kazakhstani filmmaker Igor Alferov using advanced AI tools like Gemini 3.1 and Topaz Video AI, was intended for a national rollout but faced resistance from AMC due to concerns over the role of AI in content creation.
The decision comes amid growing tensions in Hollywood regarding AI's impact on traditional filmmaking. While some view AI as a creative tool that enhances human imagination, others, including major studios and unions like SAG-AFTRA, are cautious about its potential to disrupt employment and intellectual property rights. AMC's stance highlights the industry's broader unease with integrating AI into mainstream cinema.
This situation aligns closely with themes in crypto and web3, where discussions around digital identity, ownership, and authenticity are prevalent. The use of AI for generating creative content raises questions about copyright, authenticity, and the value placed on human creativity—issues also central to the NFT and blockchain communities. As AI technology evolves, its integration into creative industries like film may reshape traditional workflows and business models.
Moreover, the debate over AI's role in entertainment mirrors broader conversations in crypto and web3 about balancing innovation
Verticals
cryptoweb3
Originally published on Decrypt on 2/20/2026