AGBO executives Chris Brearton and Dominic Hughes are set to keynote TIFFCOM 2026 on October 29, focusing on AI in storytelling.
Chris Brearton and Dominic Hughes from AGBO, the studio founded by Anthony and Joe Russo, will deliver a keynote presentation at the upcoming TIFFCOM 2026. The presentation, titled "Technology and Storytelling," is scheduled for October 29 as part of TIFFCOM, which coincides with the Tokyo International Film Festival. This information was reported by Variety on September 17, 2026.
During their keynote, Brearton and Hughes will explore how artists can integrate artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning tools into the storytelling process. The session aims to highlight collaboration between creators and technologists, reflecting a growing trend in leveraging AI for creative purposes. The discussion will be moderated by Naman Ramachandran, Asia editor at Variety.
TIFFCOM, in its 23rd edition, serves to connect various stakeholders in the film and content market, featuring numerous sessions on topics ranging from anime to international co-production strategies. This year's event stands out by including special presentations focused on AI's role in storytelling, an area where AGBO has been actively innovating. The studio has made significant contributions in the realm of blockbuster filmmaking, grossing over $7 billion worldwide and producing numerous hits, including Avengers: Endgame.
Prior to joining AGBO, Brearton spearheaded corporate strategy at Amazon MGM Studios. Hughes brings extensive expertise in algorithms and machine learning, working closely with AGBO's teams on advancing AI technologies within creative projects.
AGBO's keynote is the first in a series of conferences at TIFFCOM. Other notable sessions include a discussion on "Japanese Animation's Global Expansion" by the Association of Japanese Animations, which will unveil new industry data. Additionally, various Asian series and film showcases will be presented throughout the festival, highlighting the surge in global interest in these sectors.
With the expansion of digital and animated content in recent years, these discussions are particularly relevant. They capture the growing intersection of traditional storytelling and emerging technologies, a focus that resonates with industry professionals and audiences eager for innovative content.
The keynote by Brearton and Hughes represents a significant step in AGBO's ongoing exploration of AI in creative processes and storytelling. While specific details on further collaborations or projects stemming from this presentation have not been disclosed, the session is expected to set the tone for future discussions on technology's role in the entertainment industry. Given AGBO's reputation and market influence, this presentation may have a notable impact on industry approaches toward AI integration.
With TIFFCOM running from October 28 to 30, positioned alongside the Tokyo International Film Festival, the event is set to attract a diverse audience eager to engage in critical conversations about the evolving landscape of storytelling.
For the latest updates on the event and other entertainment news, readers can check out our previous coverage of notable acquisitions and film debuts.
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