Now in its second year, the Nikola Tesla Film Festival returns to Las Vegas on January 17, 2027 — a celebration of cinema, innovation, and imagination inspired by the genius of Nikola Tesla.
The festival showcases independent films, documentaries, and shorts exploring invention, technology, human potential, and groundbreaking ideas. Beyond the screenings, expect interactive exhibits, speakers, live performances, and networking — a fusion of film and innovation built for filmmakers, technologists, and anyone curious about where storytelling and technology meet.
The night culminates in the Electric Awards Night: a red carpet reception, finalist film highlights, and a live presentation across nine categories — including the Neural Network Award for Best Use of AI in Film and the Visionary Inventor Award for Best Experimental/Innovative Film. The Tesla Grand Prize (Best Film) carries a $1,000 cash prize and a hand-sculpted Tesla statue.
Filmmakers: submissions are open on FilmFreeway — early-bird deadline November 1, 2026; regular deadline December 1, 2026; super-late deadline January 7, 2027. Student entries are free in the Visionary Inventor and Spark Award categories.
Festival partners include Brenden Theatres at Palms, the UNLV School of Cinematic Arts, and 369 Film Production. Venue and schedule details: see the festival website.
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