The Animation Film-Makers Challenge (AFC), a key segment of the World Audio-Visual and Entertainment Summit 2025, has announced its 42 finalists, representing a diverse range of animated storytelling across feature films, short films, TV series, and AR/VR experiences. After a rigorous nine-month evaluation process, the shortlisted projects will be showcased in Mumbai from May 1 to 4, providing a unique platform for creators to connect with industry stakeholders.
The competition, organized by Dancing Atoms Studios in collaboration with the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, aims to foster partnerships between talented creators, producers, and distributors. The creative catalogue features 12 feature films, 18 short films, 9 TV series, and 3 AR/VR projects, spanning traditional animation, visual effects (VFX), augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and virtual production.
The Animation Film-Makers Challenge underscores the rising global demand for animated content. In 2024, short films contributed an estimated US Rs. 20 billion in revenue across streaming platforms and festivals, while educational animation is projected to reach US Rs. 70 billion by 2032. Feature films generated approximately US Rs. 30 billion to 32.3 billion in box office and ancillary revenues, while the booming TV animation sector accounted for US Rs. 512 billion in production and licensing income. The AR/VR animation market reached US Rs. 22.12 billion, with projections scaling up to US Rs. 79.36 billion as immersive entertainment gains momentum.
Saraswathi Buyyala, Founder and CEO of Dancing Atoms Studios, emphasized that bringing all 42 projects together in a single creative catalogue is a testament to the sheer talent discovered in India’s animation sector. The WAVES Advisory Board, composed of industry experts, will evaluate these projects and guide them toward production and distribution.
The Asia-Pacific region is anticipated to experience the fastest growth in the animation industry, fueled by increasing investments in gaming, healthcare, retail, and education. With WAVES 2025 emerging as a global platform for creative exchange, India is poised to solidify its position as a hub for content innovation, media convergence, and technological advancements in animation.
