The rapid evolution of artificial intelligence is reshaping creative industries across the globe, and two filmmakers from Mohali are among those helping define its future in cinema. Sunny Rai and Sanjay Rai have received a Special Mention by the Jury at the AI Film Awards India 2026 for their AI-assisted horror short film Cradle, earning recognition for their innovative approach to storytelling.
The honour was presented during the AI Film Awards India 2026, held on May 31 at Antisocial, Lower Parel, Mumbai. Organised by Phenomenal AI in partnership with Bombay Hub for AI, the event brought together filmmakers, technology leaders, artists and AI creators to celebrate emerging talent and discuss the future of filmmaking in the age of artificial intelligence.
Produced under the banner of Starforge Films, the Rai brothers’ AI-focused film studio, Cradle captivated the jury with its restrained style of horror and emotionally driven narrative. Written and directed by Sunny Rai and Sanjay Rai, the short film demonstrates how AI can complement traditional filmmaking techniques while preserving the emotional depth and creative vision that define memorable cinema.
The jury presenting the Special Mention award featured respected voices from both the creative and technology industries, including Hridaye Nagpal, Content Strategy Lead at InVideo; Priyarth Mukherjee, Founder of The AI Theatre; Prateek Arora, recognised for his work in Indofuturism and Hauntology; and acclaimed Bollywood filmmaker Shakun Batra.
At the heart of Cradle is a chilling psychological story. A mother notices a mysterious figure standing outside her window—an impossible sight that slowly fractures her understanding of reality. As the mystery deepens, she comes face to face with an unseen force that may already have taken everything she holds dear. Instead of relying on conventional horror tropes, the film creates suspense through atmosphere, silence and psychological tension.
The film has also found appreciation beyond Indian audiences. Cradle was selected as an Official Selection at Stick N Festival in Uruguay and the AI Film Festival Serbia, further demonstrating the growing international interest in AI-assisted independent filmmaking.
For the Rai brothers, the award reflects years of experience in visual storytelling combined with a willingness to embrace new creative technologies. They view artificial intelligence not as a replacement for filmmakers but as a tool that expands creative possibilities while leaving storytelling, direction and artistic decisions firmly in human hands.
Operating from Mohali, the brothers lead two creative ventures. Starforge Films focuses on AI-powered films, original intellectual properties and cinematic storytelling, while Explainer X, their award-winning advertising studio, has spent the past decade creating digital campaigns and branded content for clients around the world.
Through Explainer X, Sunny Rai and Sanjay Rai have developed creative work for internationally recognised entertainment studios and streaming networks, including Universal, Sony Pictures,
Paramount, SYFY, USA Network and Disney+. Their experience in advertising, post-production and visual communication has played a significant role in shaping the cinematic quality of their AI filmmaking projects.
As AI continues to influence the future of content creation, recognition at specialised film festivals has become increasingly important for independent creators experimenting with new production methods. The Special Mention awarded to Cradle highlights how technology can support powerful storytelling when combined with imagination, cinematic craft and emotional authenticity.
The filmmakers describe the recognition as an encouraging milestone that reinforces their commitment to pushing creative boundaries. They intend to continue developing films that merge emerging technologies with compelling narratives capable of connecting with audiences across cultures and languages.
Looking ahead, Starforge Films plans to expand its slate of AI-powered films, branded entertainment and original storytelling projects while collaborating with agencies, brands and production companies seeking innovative visual content. Alongside these efforts, Explainer X will continue producing digital advertising for international clients, building on more than ten years of creative experience.
With Cradle receiving international festival selections and now earning a Special Mention at the AI Film Awards India 2026, Sunny Rai and Sanjay Rai have added another significant achievement to their growing body of work. Their success illustrates how independent creators from India are using artificial intelligence not simply as a technological advancement, but as a powerful medium for telling original stories that resonate with audiences around the world.
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