OpenAI-backed ‘Critterz’ Aims for Cannes Debut with $30M Budget

A new animated feature film titled Critterz, backed by OpenAI, is set to make its debut at the Cannes Film Festival in 2026. With a budget of just $30 million, the film aims to showcase how artificial intelligence can impact the filmmaking process, potentially distinguishing itself in a competitive industry.

The story revolves around forest creatures embarking on an adventure after their village is disrupted. Originally conceived as a short film created with OpenAI’s DALL-E in 2023, Chad Nelson, a creative specialist at OpenAI, has partnered with Vertigo Films and the writers from Paddington in Peru to expand the project into a feature-length film.

While $30 million is a substantial budget, it pales in comparison to other animated films such as Pixar’s Elio, which reportedly boasts a budget of $200 million. According to a report by The Wall Street Journal, Vertigo Films is aiming to complete production in approximately nine months, significantly shorter than the typical three-year timeline for animated features. This accelerated schedule is made feasible through the integration of AI technologies alongside traditional production methods, facilitated by a studio known as Native Foreign.

Despite the reliance on AI tools, Critterz will not be entirely generated by artificial intelligence. The film will feature human voice actors and original artwork, which will be processed using GPT-5 and other AI image generation tools. The creative team is keen to illustrate that AI can positively influence the film industry. Nelson emphasized the importance of practical demonstrations, stating, “OpenAI can say what its tools do all day long, but it’s much more impactful if someone does it.”

OpenAI views the project as a significant opportunity to highlight the creative potential of its technologies. An OpenAI spokesperson noted that Critterz exemplifies the type of creativity and exploration the company wishes to promote. The hope is that the film will not only enhance the reputation of AI in the industry but also serve as a showcase of its capabilities.

The original Critterz short film has received a lukewarm reception, currently holding a rating of 3.2/10 on IMDB from 13 ratings. This suggests that interest in the initial concept may be limited, raising questions about the film’s potential success.

While Critterz is not the first feature-length film to incorporate AI elements, it is notable for its budget and the backing of OpenAI, a leader in the field of artificial intelligence. If successful, it could set a precedent for future projects that aim to merge technology with creative storytelling, particularly in a landscape dominated by major players like Disney and DreamWorks.

As audiences await the 2026 Cannes Film Festival, the film’s outcome remains uncertain. The industry watches closely to see whether Critterz can disrupt traditional animation norms and pave the way for a new era of AI-enhanced filmmaking.