Introduction to the Research Department
The ESRA Research Department brings together researchers, faculty members from the group’s various schools, and professionals from the film and audiovisual industries. It aims to develop theoretical and applied research that examines and challenges the field of cinema through its practices and aesthetic and technical.
This exploration, which builds on the curriculum at ESRA and engages with the economic context of filmmaking, production, and distribution, incorporates new forms of storytelling, technological advancements, and changes in the industry. Through questions that bridge practice and theory, the aim is to examine audiovisual creation in both its current state and its future.
This research, which is is the subject of regular publications and takes place within the framework of meetings, study days, and conferences bringing together researchers, educators, and professionals to engage in a collective reflection on issues related to the evolution of cinematic and audiovisual forms and practices.
Scientific Committee
The research department is home to a scientific committee composed of faculty members, researchers, filmmakers, screenwriters, and experienced professionals in the film and audiovisual industry, who participate in research (conferences, symposia, ) and their dissemination and ensures their high standards and serious scientifics.
Activities and Publications
Established in 2023, the department carried out, between 2023 and 2025, a research program on “cinema in the age of series,” which resulted in several study days and the publication of an anthology, edited by José Moure, bringing together contributions from researchers, screenwriters, directors, producers, and distributors.
A second research program is currently underway, focusing on “AI and audiovisual creation,” which has already led to the organization of two study days.
Calendar of Events
Days | Date | Theme |
Day 1 | September 24 2025 | AI and Audiovisual Production |
Day 2 | January 202629 | AI and Script |
Day 3 | April 2026 | Challenges in production and post-production related to AI. |
Day 4 | June 2026 (date to be announced) | To be determined |
Watch the recording of our second workshop on the topic: AI and Scriptwriting.
Workshop
AI and filmmaking
The ESRA Group’s Research Department invites you to a half-day seminar at ESRA Côte d’Azur on the Georges Méliès campus in Cannes on Wednesday, April 29.
This event offers a discussion on the use of artificial intelligence in feature film production, based on the experience ofAdastra Films and the films of director Akaki Popkhadze.
Using concrete examples from *Brûle le sang*(2024) and the current project, the speakers will discuss the evolution of digital tools across the various stages of film production: writing, pre-production, post-production, and distribution. The discussion will focus in particular on the current role of AI-assisted research and generative AI: writing assistance, mood board creation, editing support, visual effects, masking of unwanted elements, etc.
Research team
José MOURE
Marc CERISUELO
Jean Wilbert BOCLICHE
Publications and Researcher Visits
Jean Wilbert BOCLICHE
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 01 44 25 25 27
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