André Joseph’s AI sci-fi short heads to Times Square screening

AJ Epyx Productions will screen its AI-animated short film Royale Rising at the Urban Action Showcase in Times Square on Nov. 14. The showing highlights how independent filmmakers are using artificial intelligence in production while the company expands its creative hub in Elizabeth, New Jersey.

Why it matters: - AJ Epyx Productions is using a Times Square screening to showcase how independent filmmakers can apply artificial intelligence to storytelling and motion capture. - The screening also spotlights the company’s broader push to build a creative hub for filmmakers, podcasters and other artists near Manhattan. - The move comes as AI continues to reshape film production, a trend highlighted in a 2025 study published in Telecommunications Policy.

What happened: - AJ Epyx Productions will screen its independent film Royale Rising on Nov. 14, 2026, in Times Square in New York City. - The Urban Action Showcase screening is set for 12:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 14, 2026, at Regal Cinema Times Square, theater nine, film block two, at 247 W. 42nd Street. - The short is an AI action film from New Jersey-based filmmaker, actor and company owner André Joseph. - Joseph said the project is meant to show the possibilities AI offers filmmakers.

The details: - Royale Rising is the company’s first AI-animated sci-fi film. - The production uses action footage of actors for motion capture. - AJ Epyx Productions describes the film as a demonstration of new storytelling formats and emerging technology. - Joseph has spent 20 years as an independent filmmaker. - He expanded AJ Epyx Productions by opening a creative studio in Elizabeth, New Jersey, about a 30-minute train ride from Manhattan. - The studio is located at Vintage City Studios in Elizabeth. - The space is designed for actors, filmmakers, podcasters and other creatives. - The company says the hub will offer production services, recording services, collaborations, workshops, mentorship and hands-on filmmaking opportunities. - AJ Epyx Productions also plans to work with art organizations, community groups and local schools. - The creative space includes video production, podcast recording and fully equipped studio access. - The site listed for more information is the company’s services page.

Between the lines: - Joseph is positioning AI as a tool for creative augmentation rather than a threat to filmmaking. - The company is pairing the film screening with a local studio expansion, which suggests a strategy to turn publicity into community-based creative services. - The cited Telecommunications Policy study argues AI is already influencing most digital transformation efforts across industries, including film.

What’s next: - AJ Epyx Productions will present Royale Rising at the Urban Action Showcase on Nov. 14. - The Elizabeth studio is expected to serve as a continuing production and training space for creators in New York and New Jersey. - More information is available on André Joseph’s website.