Deaffest is committed to supporting creativity, innovation, and accessibility within the filmmaking community. As part of Deaffest 2026 promotional campaign, we carried out a small creative exploration using AI-assisted tools to better understand how emerging technologies may work and benefit traditional trailer production.
This exploration reflects our interest in understanding how new tools might support filmmakers, particularly those with limited budgets or resources when creating their own film. At the same time, Deaffest remains committed to fairness, transparency, and ensuring that opportunities within the festival remain inclusive and balanced for all filmmakers.
We believe it is important for festivals to stay aware of developments in the creative industry so that we can continue supporting our community and avoid unintentionally limiting opportunities for filmmakers who choose to use new technologies responsibly. Deaffest is currently following the ongoing industry conversation around the use of AI in the screen sector.
All cast members participated in the project and provided consent for the use of this likeness. This promo was created by a team of humans, with a little help from emerging creative tools.
Huge thanks to Seb Cunliffe for creating this amazing Deaffest 2026 promo!
Meet VinzSlam – straight outta Toulouse, France 🇫🇷
Click here to watch his video.
VinzSlam, a sign song artist, flips beats into motion through French Sign Language (LSF) and International Sign.
From original sign songs to interpreting tracks by major US and French artists, he’s all about that vibe:
➟ rhythm you can see
➟ emotion you can feel
➟ stories told loud
Festival stages? Yeah, he’s owned plenty. Cultural scenes? He lights them up – always bringing high-energy, inclusive performances.
At Deaffest 2026 – expect a mix of original work and dynamic interpretations – full-on visual shows.
Catch him at the Launch Night on 8 May, and at the Film & TV Awards Gala and Late-Night Party on 9 May. Ticket required – get yours here!
Want to know more about the process? Join VinzSlam’s workshop with DJ Nico – where he breaks down how music is translated into sign (Pre-booking required)
Date: Saturday 9 May 2026
Times: 10.00am – 5.00pm
Location: Rosalind Franklin (MB), Millennium City (MC) Buildings & Courtyard, University of Wolverhampton, Wulfruna Street, Wolverhampton, WV1 1LY
All ages are welcome. To purchase Saturday Daytime tickets, please visit here.
Sign in Style by stepping into a vibrant festival marketplace at the 16th edition of Deaffest! Discover a lively space where creativity and community come together. Connect with inspiring businesses and charities, explore creative stalls, and and discover what our stallholders have in store!
Festival Finds: Deaffest 2026 Stalls
ZEBRA ACCESS
SORENSON
UNIVERSITY OF WOLVERHAMPTON
LUMOTV
SIGN SOLUTIONS
CONVO
SIGNWOW
ASLI
ACTION DEAFNESS
BELOVED_INDRA
BLACK COUNTRY LIVING MUSEUM
BLACK DEAF UK
BORN DEAF TO AN MBE
CHEEK & CHARM
CLF PHOTOGRAPHY
DEAF ACTION
DEAFNOISE
FILIP HEYNINCK
LAURA TAILOR
LISTEN IN SILENT MODE
MIAMORBAKEZ
OFCOM
ONE (SELF HELP UK)
SANDWELL DEAF COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION
SIGNHEALTH
SIGN UP TRAINING
THE DEAF CHEFS
UK DEAF STUDENT UNION
VOLUNTEARS
Deaffest 