Search Results for: Midwest Film Festival

When Chicago Community Cinema re-launches May 3 as the Midwest Independent Film Festival at Landmark’s Century Centre, it will be one of the first fests between the coasts to offer true HD projection.

New sponsor Resolution Digital Studios?The Show Department’s HD facility which officially opens its doors this April?is supplying Digital Light Processing (DLP) HD projection equipment.

Longtime CCC sponsor Fletcher Chicago is providing a DVC-Pro HD playback deck.

Michael Matzdorff’s Door County comedy “Feed the Fish” leads the 47 contenders for the Midwest Independent Film Festival’s annual Best of the Midwest Awards, running for its third year on Dec. 7 at Rockit Bar & Grill.

“Feed the Fish” is nominated in six categories: for best feature, director, screenplay, cinematography, editing, and Green Bay native Tony Shalhoub for best actor.

The BMAs honor the films that screened at MIFF’s monthly first Tuesday events throughout the year.

WHAT ARE THE ODDS of filmmakers actually seeing their short film premiere at two international film festivals, being held the same weeks this month, at two widely separated locations?

Short film producers Kathryn Henderson and Marie Ullrich fly to London Tuesday to see their short, “Faster!” showcase at the ultra prestigious 54th British Film Institute London Film Festival.

At the same time, “Faster!” also screens as one of the 11 choice selections in the Illinois(e)Makers program at the 46th Chicago International Film Festival.

Presenters Jon McNaughton and Steve Conrad and nominee Lori Petty are just a few of the high-powered guests expected at the Midwest Independent Film Festival’s annual Best of the Midwest Awards (BMA) Dec. 1 at Rockit Bar & Grill.

“Last year’s BMAs were sold-out and filled to the brim with the top film industry folks in town and we were absolutely elated with the turnout,” says festival director and co-founder Mike McNamara.

“For this year’s festivities, we’ll have more great guests and award presenters that we’ll be announcing as we get closer to the first.”

“All truth passes through three stages,” Ky Dickens, a producer for commercial MK Films, says in her documentary “Fish Out of Water.” “First it is ridiculed. Second, it is violently opposed. And third, it is accepted as being self-evident.”

“Fish Out of Water” screened Sunday as the documentary centerpiece of the 29th Reeling: Chicago Lesbian & Gay International Film Festival.

Dickens interviewed religious figures, scholars and everyday Americans in more than 20 states about shifting religious, social and political views on homosexuality.

Actor/director Jeff Daniels’ latest feature will have its Midwest premiere at the 11th Annual Waterfront Film Festival June 11-14 in Saugatuck, Mich., where 70-plus films in five venues will screen.

Daniels’ “The Answer Man” is a comedy about the reclusive and misanthropic author of a landmark book that redefined spirituality for a generation, in which he claims to have spoken directly to God.

Twenty-two of the best Midwestern films from a year’s worth of the Midwest Independent Film Festival will be honored Dec. 2 at a gala awards ceremony ? not at its usual Century Cinema venue – but at the more festive Rockit Bar & Grill.

The 22 films, which played at MWFF throughout 2008, have been nominated in nine categories.

Three films scored the most nominations. Five nominations for director Steve Conrad’s feature, “The Promotion,” with John C.

ACTOR DAVID PASQUESI’S TV SERIES, “Factory,” will bow June 29 on Spike TV, but Pasquesi may not see the premiere episode in Rome, where he’s garnering a nifty credit in the super big-budget “Angels and Demons” from Imagine Entertainment.

It’s based on the Dan Brown novel, actually the prequel to “The DaVinci Code,” and Tom Hanks again portrays symbologist Robert Langdon.

The largely improvised “Factory” is about four guys ?

The Independent Feature Project/Midwest has made no little plans. Foremost among them is the possible acquisition of the 15-year old eclectic Chicago Underground Film Festival, plus expanding the number of screenings, workshops and networking events.

To help achieve these goals, IFP’s board added five new members to increase the board size to 25 members.

“We have branched out and brought in ideas from experts beyond the film world,” says IFP executive director Elizabeth Donius, noting the new members’ expertise includes public relations, development and arts management.

THE TAX EXTENSION IS ON ITS WAY! The Illinois House voted 107-7 to extend Illinois’ generous 20% tax credits. The bill was introduced to the House by speaker Michael Madigan .

From there, the bill goes to the Senate and wends its way through committes and ultimately to the Senate floor for a vote ? assuming all goes according to plan. It’s difficult to say when to pop corks — everyone’s hoping before the end of the month — so stay tuned.

BRIAN JUN’S dramatic feature “Steel City” was named Best of the Midwest at the Midwest Independent Film Festival last week at Century Centre Cinema before an SRO house.

BRIAN JUN’S dramatic feature “Steel City” was named Best of the Midwest at the Midwest Independent Film Festival last week at Century Centre Cinema before an SRO house.

Fast on the heels of its smashingly successful fund-raising gala comes IFP/Chicago’s 16th annual Midwest Filmmakers Summit the weekend of Oct. 19.

“We’re just recovering from the gala,” good-naturedly moaned IFP executive director Elizabeth Donius who, with development director Colleen O’Neill and staff put on one kick-ass event.

A full house of 300 guests jammed Salvage One Friday, Sept. 28 to party, meet other indie filmmakers, bid on a slew of neat auction items, and leave IFP approximately $20,000 richer to use for programs throughout the year.

With the advent of Labor Day, when white shoes are tucked in the back of the closet, and sunlight vanishes all-too-early, a pent-up avalanche of non-theatrical films descends upon Chicago.

There’s something for everyone, as hundreds and hundreds of indie films will screen in more than 75 movie events to date at familiar and new venues, now through December.

Pete Schwaba joins the growing ranks of independent filmmakers choosing self-release over unsatisfactory distribution offers, when he opens his debut feature “The Godfather of Green Bay” in theaters March 24.

Schwaba and his producers Brian and Josh Etting are playing “Godfather” on 14 screens across Wisconsin.

“Just seeing it play in festivals for over a year, we saw how audiences responded,” Schwaba said.

“We saw offers for straight-to-video or a week in New York. We didn’t know if our investors would see a dime.

Nineteen-year-old actor and filmmaker Aaron Himelstein led the winners at the Midwest Independent Film Festival’s inaugural Best of the Midwest Awards.

Best of the Midwest bestowed Shelle Awards in 12 categories for films made in the Midwest or by Midwest filmmakers, which had screened at the MWFF’s monthly event at Landmark’s Century Centre Cinema.

A Buffalo Grove native who played young Austin Powers in “Goldmember,” Himelstein’s drama “Sugar Mountain” took the Best Picture and Best Drama awards.

A heavy dose of hard-hitting politics joins the staples of transgressive and experimental cinema at the 12th Annual Chicago Underground Film Festival, which runs Aug. 18-25 in its new home at the Music Box Theatre.

CUFF 12 includes 13 narrative features, nine documentary features, 18 narrative shorts, 29 documentary shorts, 89 experimental shorts, and six animations.

LAUREN FISCHER is hitting her stride as a recognized screenwriter. On Aug. 31 her “Wish I Might”?winner of the 2005 IFP/Chicago-Chicago Scriptworks contest?will have a staged reading by Chicago Scriptworks at the Cultural Center.

“Wish I Might” is the story of two teenaged stepsisters and the one wish that will either bring them together or tear their family apart. It’s also a semi-finalist in the 2005 PAGE International Screenwriting Awards.

Filmmaker donnie l. betts first met Oscar Brown, Jr. at a workshop in Denver when betts was a young actor there.

“He inspired me to be the kind of artist I wanted to be, “an artist who has a social responsibility and a social awareness to do more than entertain but educate as well, and hopefully elevate,” said betts, now a theatre director, screen actor and documentarian.

25 years later, betts has completed the first full-length documentary ever made about the Chicago cultural icon who died May 29.

A dozen Latino filmmakers have set out to make Chicago a better place for their fellow Latinos to make movies.

Juan J. Lopez and his colleagues have launched the Chicago chapter of the National Association of Latino Independent Producers (NALIP).

Founded in 1999 and boasting chapters in 11 cities, NALIP is dedicated to supporting Latinos working throughout the film industry.

Aspiring filmmaker Adriana Rivera has some basic questions that the Reel is happy to answer, and hopes it also helps you.

Rivera : I’d love to know what’s filming in Chicago.

INDIEFEST CHICAGO has extended the submission deadline to May 10 for the Third Annual Indiefest Film Festival & Market, the only film market in Midwest, which runs July 29-Aug. 7. See www.indiefest.org.

“Juvies” National guests draw big crowds at IFP/Chicago Filmmakers Conference Donius presided over her first IFP Filmmakers Conference Oct. 21-24, featuring an expanded four-day schedule, a higher-profile roster of national figures and attendees from across the Midwest. The Conference springboarded off the Chicago International Film Festival, which closed the night the Conference opened, drawing filmmakers who were in town for the fest: Alexander Payne, whose “Sideways” advance screening presaged the Conference, and director Dylan Kidd and star Laura Linney, whose “P.S.” headlined Friday night. Record number of locally-made films screening at Chicago Film Festival One of the films was made in India and one of the directors lives in L.A., but with 12 films ? four features and eight shorts ‐ either made in Chicago, by a local director, or both, there’s more “Chicago” in the 40th Annual Chicago International Film Festival than there has been in recent memory. Here’s a quick guide to all the Chicago films at this year’s CIFF, which runs through Oct. 21. Venue locations are listed at the end. “THE JOURNEY,” World Premiere Local attorney Ligy J. Chicago International Film Fest pulls out all the stops for 40th anniversary celebration The glitz and glamour of the Chicago International Film Festival (Oct. 7-21) ratchets up to ultra high as it celebrates its 40th anniversary, founded by artistic director Micahel Kutza, marked with more premieres, more star presentations, more special presenations and more parties than ever before. Out of the 1,500 submissions received, 111 features and 54 shorts from 44 countries will screen. Of these two are world premieres, 13 North American premieres and 22 U.S. premieres. Opening night (Oct. Zack Parker plans filming $2 million gothic thriller in Indiana in September Director Zack Parker will take his mostly Chicago crew to his native Richmond, Indiana this September for five weeks to shoot his second feature, the projected $2 million “Quench.” Parker shot his debut feature, the horror pic “Inexchange” on the campus of his alma mater Ball State University in summer 2001. Looking for a movie tonight? Catch one of these non-traditional film series Chicago boasts one of the biggest and most vibrant independent film scenes in America, in terms of both production and outlets. To prove the point, Chicago is experiencing a boom in non-traditional screening series. In addition to a growing roster of annual film festivals, established and fledgling organizations host screenings scattered around the city at theatres, nightclubs and other venues. Famous local animators to topline April Midwest Animators Conference Famous regional stars of regional animated films and commercials will highlight the 2004 Midwest Animators Conference April 23-24 at the Double Trees Guest Suites in Downers Grove. Don’t let the ambiguous topic titles turn you off. Speakers on those subjects are some of the most authoritative and productive visual artists in the business. Indiefest Chicago launches Aug. 1, featuring Midwest’s first film market The Midwest’s first film market is gearing up for its launch Aug. 8-10, the last three days of Indiefest Chicago, a festival that begins Aug. 1. “We’re out to promote the ‘Vision Without Compromise’ spirit of the independent filmmaker, and to bring a film festival and market to Chicago that is truly for the independent filmmaker,” said Indiefest organizer Lee Alan. First Milwaukee International Film Festival bows Nov. 6-16 Milwaukee has joined the ranks of hundreds of cities with its first International Film Festival, Nov. 6-16 that will strongly emphasize Midwestern-made independent films. “Lizzie” director launches Indiefest film market “Lizzie” director Lee Alan is launching Indiefest, the Midwest’s first film market. Lee Alan is out to help what he believes is an underserved constituency: independent filmmakers. Camera Ambassador announces Builders Grant winner After months of careful consideration & hundreds of community votes, Camera Ambassador introduces this year’s 2021 Community Builders Grant winner Link Wolfe.  His team’s project Zero Mile Mark is a horror short film about a troubled teen who is forcibly sent to a wilderness retreat program in the woods for “rehabilitation.” We’re incredibly grateful for the opportunity … Continue reading “Camera Ambassador announces Builders Grant winner” MFF celebrates Homecoming Night virtual showcase Join the Midwest Film Festival for a special evening celebrating Homecoming Night, a virtual gathering of homegrown Midwestern talent and stories. The evening begins Thursday, May 27, 2021, at 6:00 PM with a pre-screening panel, then a showcase of the works of eight filmmakers, finishing the evening with a filmmakers Q&A. The Midwest Film Festival is the … Continue reading “MFF celebrates Homecoming Night virtual showcase” Applications now open for the Community Builders Grant The Community Builders Grant is a short-form film fund and production resources grant sponsored by Camera Ambassador. Their mission is to help build bridges between filmmakers and the community while elevating their production by arming them with the necessary tools to create. This grant supports artists with varying levels of experience, both to recognize accomplished individuals, … Continue reading “Applications now open for the Community Builders Grant” MFF Union & Indie Passion Projects exciting lineup Join Midwest Film Festival and The Gene Siskel Film Center on Tuesday, September 29th at 6:00pm at the CHI-Town Movies Drive-In with a brand new themed night to celebrate the passion projects created by Union & Indie Filmmakers.  This night is all about celebrating the short films created not only by indie filmmakers, but also members of … Continue reading “MFF Union & Indie Passion Projects exciting lineup” Manuela Hung’s ‘Handpan Journey’ premieres at MFF Reel Chicago goes Behind the Scenes with Manuela Hung on the making of her fascinating documentary, Handpan Journey premiering at Midwest Film Festival’s Female Filmmaker Night. If there was a Chicago award for lifetime achievement, dedication and love for film, Manuela Hung would be a top contender.  She has been an active part of Chicago’s … Continue reading “Manuela Hung’s ‘Handpan Journey’ premieres at MFF” MFF offers free online Comedy Shorts Program Just when we needed it the most, the Midwest Film Festival (MFF) is participating in #GivingTuesday by giving viewers access to their Comedy Shorts Program online, free of charge. Originally presented in February as the 2020 season opener program, there are 10 films available to view that touch on a wide variety of topics, all with one goal … Continue reading “MFF offers free online Comedy Shorts Program” MFF launches 2020 season under new director Duffy Erica Duffy, a transplant from San Francisco, has been part of the Chicago film community for 6 years and counting. No stranger to film production, she’s the proud owner of Camera Ambassador, a local rental house in Chicago. Camera Ambassador provides resources and services to filmmakers such as workshops and screenings.  The space also hosts … Continue reading “MFF launches 2020 season under new director Duffy” Behind the scenes with the Chicago IFA’s Angie Gaffney Angie Gaffney chaperones a lot of dreams in the Windy City. As Executive Director of the Chicago Independent Film Alliance — an organization recently formed by combining the Independent Filmmaker Project with Stage 18 — she helps people achieve their goals, and their goals are to make movies. Or short films. Or pilots. Or web … Continue reading “Behind the scenes with the Chicago IFA’s Angie Gaffney” Chicago creatives bring home 15 Lions for their city Chicago creatives are the recipients of 15 Cannes Lions International Festival Awards, including the Titanium Lion – the top creative award in the world for the “Boards of Change” work. In addition to the awarded Cannes Lions, the City of Chicago was recognized at The One Show 2021, receiving one Grand Prix, four gold, four … Continue reading “Chicago creatives bring home 15 Lions for their city” One at Optimus signs Director George Zwierzynski Jr. One at Optimus, the production arm of leading production and post house Optimus, today announced George Zwierzynski Jr. has signed on as director. The award-winning director’s work ranges from comedic short films to commercial campaigns for brands including Ace Hardware, Avocados From Mexico, Boost Mobile, Dunkin’, Dyson, Intel, McDonald’s, Pizza Hut, Stella Artois, Totino’s, Truth and … Continue reading “One at Optimus signs Director George Zwierzynski Jr.” 2020 in Review: Reel Chicago’s Biggest Stories What a year, huh? 2020, which felt like a decade, will undoubtedly go down in history as one of the worst years ever. And who will argue? Certainly not the staff at Reel Chicago. This year, COVID forced productions to shut down. Then start back up. Then shut back down. Then start back up. It … Continue reading “2020 in Review: Reel Chicago’s Biggest Stories” Zoë Iltsopoulos Borys named VP/GM Panavision Chicago Panavision has named Zoë Iltsopoulos Borys to lead the company’s Chicago office as Vice President and General Manager. Borys will ensure Panavision’s customers continue to receive the highest level of service and support throughout the commercial, television, and feature sectors, and will be supported by Chicago Operations Manager Stan Glapa. Sharon Walker Retires Borys’ appointment … Continue reading “Zoë Iltsopoulos Borys named VP/GM Panavision Chicago” ‘Doll Eyes’ come to life for Chicago director Piñeiro Felix Piñeiro has signed on to direct ​Doll Eyes​ written by award-winning screenwriter Amir Mohabbat. The horror film follows a developmentally disabled man who protects his sister from an abuser with “unique, desired eyes.” Piñeiro is a two-time DCASE Grant recipient and Finalist for the 2018 Chicago Filmmaker in Residence Award. His latest project is … Continue reading “‘Doll Eyes’ come to life for Chicago director Piñeiro” ‘City So Real’ Chicago’s problems are America’s problems Molly Given, of the Philly Metro interviews Chicago filmmaker Steve James about his latest film, ‘City so Real‘ Academy Award-nominated filmmaker Steve James’ (Hoop Dreams, America to Me) fascinating and complex portrait of contemporary Chicago delivers a deep, multifaceted look into the soul of a quintessentially American city, set against the backdrop of its history-making … Continue reading “‘City So Real’ Chicago’s problems are America’s problems” Camera Ambassador Grant winner Raju faces challenges This past summer, director and writer Sean Sankalp Raju won the Camera Ambassador Community Builders Grant for his project A Nickname. The autobiographical short film tells the story of how the filmmaker received the moniker, Sean, as an Indian American child. In an economy where funding an independent film is especially difficult, Raju was ecstatic … Continue reading “Camera Ambassador Grant winner Raju faces challenges” Interview: CIFF Senior Programmer Anthony Kaufman Today is the beginning of the 56th Chicago International Film Festival. Unlike other years, the prestigious festival is a bit different than the ones we have experienced in the past. With an ongoing pandemic and COVID on the rise in Illinois, the fest is combining streaming on-demand and appointment screenings and an in-person drive-in theatre … Continue reading “Interview: CIFF Senior Programmer Anthony Kaufman” Athletes For Care announces golf tournament Athletes For Care has announced their inaugural charity golf tournament in support of Lost Boyz, Inc., a Chicago-based community youth sports organization.  A charity event has been organized that provides immediate support to the Lost Boyz winter sports program. A4C’s first-ever Golf Tournament will be held on September 22nd at the Bolingbrook Golf Club in … Continue reading “Athletes For Care announces golf tournament” City of Chicago awards $2m in CityArts Program grants Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot and the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) announced the recipients of the 2020 CityArts Program grants. This year, the CityArts Program is awarding general operating grants between $2,000 to $30,000 – and special project grants ranging from $2,500 to $56,200 – to 191 nonprofit organizations for a total … Continue reading “City of Chicago awards $2m in CityArts Program grants” National Geographic acquires Kartemquinn’s City so Real National Geographic announced the acquisition of CITY SO REAL, an official Indie Episodic selection at the 2020 Sundance Film Festival, set to premiere on the network this fall. From twice Academy Award-nominated filmmaker Steve James (America to Me, Hoop Dreams) and his longtime producing partner Zak Piper (Life Itself, The Interrupters) the fascinating and complex … Continue reading “National Geographic acquires Kartemquinn’s City so Real” Q & A with SAG-AFTRA Chicago’s Kathy Byrne Kathy Byrne provides a wealth of information for Chicago productions.  Currently the SAG-AFTRA Chicago Local Director of TV/Theatrical, she was a Project Coordinator for the Mayor’s Office of Special Events in the Film Office.   Byrne has been the Director of TV/Theatrical for SAG-AFTRA Chicago since May, 2010.  In addition to running the TV/Theatrical Department, … Continue reading “Q & A with SAG-AFTRA Chicago’s Kathy Byrne” Zoom Interview: with David and Joan of O’Connor Casting There are two sides to every camera story: those behind it creating movie magic, and the talented performers in front.  What many may not consider are the people who bridge the gap between the two worlds; one of these departments being Casting.  One company that’s been adjusting during these turbulent times is O’Connor Casting, run … Continue reading “Zoom Interview: with David and Joan of O’Connor Casting” REEL WOMEN: Colette Gabriel, GM of Keslow Camera Editor’s Note: They are leaders. They are inspirational. They are mentors. They are visionaries. They are, quite frankly, badasses. They are our 2020 Reel Women During Women’s History Month, you will be able to meet these incredible personalities in Advertising, Entertainment, Media and Production. Get ready. Colette Gabriel is the General Manager of Keslow Camera … Continue reading “REEL WOMEN: Colette Gabriel, GM of Keslow Camera” At Cinespace and beyond. Who’s working today. Over the past week it’s safe to say that the Illinois film community is doing their best to ensure that their employees are safe during this unfortunate time. In light of worldwide health concerns about the impact from the COVID-19 virus, many have postponed production until further notice. Starting Monday, Cinespace will close the secondary … Continue reading “At Cinespace and beyond. Who’s working today.” ‘Breaking Bad’ producer Stewart Lyons at DePaul Breaking Bad producer Stewart Lyons will be among the TV and film creators appearing at DePaul University’s School of Cinematic Arts Visiting Artists Series this winter. The award-winning guest, who also produces Better Call Saul, will take part in the VAS’ series of feature screenings and onstage discussions with leading talent in the entertainment industry … Continue reading “‘Breaking Bad’ producer Stewart Lyons at DePaul” ‘The Dawn’ sends shivers from Minnesota to California Executive Producers Chris Charles and John W. Bosher have expanded their Midwestern canon with the award-winning paranormal psycho-thriller The Dawn, which was released in select theaters, digital, and on-demand throughout North America on January 10, 2020. Filmed in Minnesota and California, The Dawn follows a young woman in post-World War I America who is sent … Continue reading “‘The Dawn’ sends shivers from Minnesota to California” Erica Duffy is MIFF’s new executive director The Midwest Independent Film Festival, which has been in somewhat of an identity makeover since Mike McNamara stepped down from the role of executive director in 2017, is placing its bets on Camera Ambassador’s managing partner Erica Duffy to right the ship. The nonprofit organization has been a staple of Chicago’s independent film community since … Continue reading “Erica Duffy is MIFF’s new executive director” Kwielford, Guth step down from MIFF leadership Midwest Independent Film Festival’s President and Executive Director announce their resignations on Saturday-morning Facebook posts Midwest Independent Film Festival President Mike Kwielford and Executive Director Amy Guth have stepped down from their leadership roles with the organization. They announced their departures in separate Facebook posts on Saturday morning. Finding time to focus on other film- … Continue reading “Kwielford, Guth step down from MIFF leadership” Advertising Community Shorts night lineup Midwest Independent Film Festival’s popular annual industry tradition tomorrow night at Landmark Century The advertising and independent filmmaking communities converge for an inspiring night of short films as First Tuesdays with The Midwest Independent Film Festival hosts its tenth annual Advertising Community Shorts Night on Tuesday, November 5th. The evening will open at 6 p.m. … Continue reading “Advertising Community Shorts night lineup” Black Harvest Feast coming to South Shore Sisters in Cinema presents free screening and talk-back with Chicago filmmakers, South Shore Cultural Center, October 17 Sisters in Cinema will host The Black Harvest Feast, a film screening in collaboration with the Gene Siskel Film Center and the Chicago Park District’s Re:Center Program at the South Shore Cultural Center on October 17, 2019 at … Continue reading “Black Harvest Feast coming to South Shore” Nanfu Wang named keynote for DVID graduation Award-winning filmmaker will help celebrate grads of the doc program organized by Kartemquin and the Community Film Workshop Kartemquin Films and the Community Film Workshop of Chicago are thrilled to announce award-winning filmmaker Nanfu Wang (One Child Nation, Hooligan Sparrow) will provide the keynote speech at the 2019 Diverse Voices in Docs (DVID) graduation on … Continue reading “Nanfu Wang named keynote for DVID graduation” IFP throws first annual fundraiser at Lagunitas Event auction prizes include lunch with IFO Director Peter Hawley, CFO Director Kwame Amoaku, and Cinespace Chicago President Alex Pissios IFP Chicago’s new associate board is proud to announce that their first annual fundraiser will be hosted by Lagunitas at the Lagunitas brewery facility near Cinespace Studios at 2607 W 17th St. on September 30, … Continue reading “IFP throws first annual fundraiser at Lagunitas” MIFF presents ‘All Creatures Here Below’ A young couple’s impulsive crime sets off a series of events leading to dire consequences from LA to Kansas City The Midwest Independent Film Festival is proud to present thriller All Creatures Here Below, directed by Collin Schiffli, for September’s #FirstTuesdays screening event. The film is the story of Gensan (David Dastmalchian) and Ruby (Karen … Continue reading “MIFF presents ‘All Creatures Here Below’” Stop Us Before We Disrupt Again Chicago Film Society unveils lineup for Season 24, “dedicated to exhibiting neglected works of cinema in their original medium” The streets of Chicago are clogged with scooters in a cutthroat competition for marketshare, behemoth commercial landlord The We Company (nee WeWork) has positioned itself as a tech company in anticipation of its IPO, and Disney … Continue reading “Stop Us Before We Disrupt Again” ‘R.A.W. TUBA’ wins Best Short at Black Harvest Documentary about Richard Antoine White’s inspiring life earns the Richard and Ellen Sandor Family Black Harvest Film Festival Prize R.A.W. TUBA was awarded Best Short film at the 25th Annual Black Harvest Film Festival on Saturday afternoon. Directed by David Larson and Darren Durlach, the inspiring documentary tells the story of Richard Antoine White, aka … Continue reading “‘R.A.W. TUBA’ wins Best Short at Black Harvest” Chicago Asian Pop-Up Cinema announces season 9 This year’s lineup of musicals, thrillers, dramas, comedies, and awards dazzle the Windy City September 10 through October 10, 2019 Non-profit pan-Asian film organization Sophia’s Choice today announces Asian Pop-Up Cinema – Season Nine, is the film series that cultivates American interest and understanding of Asian culture through movie storytelling while making Chicago a destination … Continue reading “Chicago Asian Pop-Up Cinema announces season 9” Late summer media wrap IL Film Tax Credit “Avengers: Endgame” Metallica “Skippers” “Solstice” SG + Partners in the news   Film Tax Credit extended til 2026 Governor JB Pritzker signed a bill extending the revenue-generating Illinois Film Tax credit until 2026. Officially known as Illinois Senate Bill 1981, the “Film Production Services Tax Credit Act of 2008” offers a … Continue reading “Late summer media wrap” MIFF, ReelAbilites partner for August First Tuesday The Midwest Independent Film Festival presents ‘When Billy Broke his Head… and Other Tales of Wonder’ Tuesday August 6 at Landmark The Midwest Independent Film Festival is proud to partner with ReelAbilities Chicago to present the 25th anniversary screening of When Billy Broke His Head… And Other Tales of Wonder, on August 6, 2019. The … Continue reading “MIFF, ReelAbilites partner for August First Tuesday” ‘HOOPS’ explores a world of emotional geography A filmmaking collective deconstructs traditional narratives with a diverse mini-series of cross-cultural shorts A group of 17 emerging Midwestern filmmakers explore friendship, loss, community, and displacement in an upcoming anthological mini-series of cross-cultural shorts called HOOPS. Produced by Kelechi Agwuncha, the stories follow separate but interwoven narratives that “meditate on how these ideas evolve with … Continue reading “‘HOOPS’ explores a world of emotional geography” A sneak peek at Billy Dec’s ‘Food. Roots. Philippines.’ Chicago’s award-winning restaurateur and media personality films a quest for family and food in Southeast Asia Billy Dec’s Food. Roots. Philippines. explores an ancient recipe for success on the other side of the world. Currently in post-production, the PBS project is a journey into the country, culture, and cuisine of his ancestors. The Southeast Asian … Continue reading “A sneak peek at Billy Dec’s ‘Food. Roots. Philippines.’” Cow Lamp signs ‘Rendezvous’ for distribution Michael Glover Smith’s award-winning “love letter” to the Windy City will begin streaming online in October Cow Lamp Films has acquired the rights to Rendezvous in Chicago. According to a press release issued today, the company will make the locally-produced romantic comedy available for online viewing in October, when Rendezvous’ summer festival run concludes. Rendezvous … Continue reading “Cow Lamp signs ‘Rendezvous’ for distribution” Chicago-made ‘Musician’ wins big at Vero Beach Mark Schimmel’s musical fantasy drama enhances Florida film fest with the sounds of Chicago Filmmaker Mark Schimmel felt that he and co-producer Normann Pokorny had created something very special after they premiered The Musician at the Midwest Independent Film Festival’s annual Midwest Shorts program in March. Last week, it won the Grand Jury Award at … Continue reading “Chicago-made ‘Musician’ wins big at Vero Beach” Cinema/Chicago’s Summer Screenings Program Films from around the world screen for free at the Chicago Cultural Center every Wednesday through October 2 Cinema/Chicago’s annual free Summer Screenings Program goes from the blossom of young romance and swimsuit sunbathing to the mythology of mermaids and the search for alien life. With 17 feature films and one short screening at the … Continue reading “Cinema/Chicago’s Summer Screenings Program” Interview with former IFO Director Christine Dudley The woman who helped Illinois make hundreds of TV shows and generate $2.5 billion in revenue talks about the ever-changing Midwestern filmscape Christine Dudley joined the Illinois Film Office at the exact time when the Illinois Film Office needed Christine Dudley. Combining exceptional legislative knowledge with a “modest background in production,” she helped guide the … Continue reading “Interview with former IFO Director Christine Dudley” Cinepocalypse unveils 2019 lineup The June 13-20 Music Box Theatre fest opens with the World Premiere of Glenn Danzig’s “Verotika” Cinepocalypse, Chicago’s premiere festival for electrifying and provocative genre cinema, returns to the Music Box Theatre June 13th for eight days of features, shorts, events and surprises, including eight fantastic break-out world premieres! We’re proud to announce our new … Continue reading “Cinepocalypse unveils 2019 lineup” ‘Pooh: The Derrick Rose Story’ screens at MIFF The Midwest Independent Film Festival is proud to present Pooh: The Derrick Rose Story, as part of our First Tuesdays screening series, directed by Scott Diener. Derrick Rose became the youngest MVP in NBA history and a celebrated superstar for the Bulls in his hometown of Chicago. Rose’s gritty style on the court was forged … Continue reading “‘Pooh: The Derrick Rose Story’ screens at MIFF” Cooney’s “Runner” leaps to distribution on Omeleto For any artist who wants to make a really good short film on a single-grand budget, this thriller is required viewing Clare Cooney’s award-winning short film, Runner, obtained distribution and is today available on Omeleto — a curated YouTube channel that features groundbreaking short films and has nearly 1.5 million subscribers. Runner is a short … Continue reading “Cooney’s “Runner” leaps to distribution on Omeleto” Peabody honors ‘Minding the Gap’ and Kartemquin The feature doc and the Chicago-based production house earn huge accolades from the prestigious organization Bing Liu’s feature documentary Minding the Gap and Chicago production house Kartemquin Films earned major recognition from the Peabody Awards yesterday. Minding the Gap was listed among eight winners in the Documentary category for programs released in 2018. Kartemquin, which … Continue reading “Peabody honors ‘Minding the Gap’ and Kartemquin” MIFF to host Chicago premiere of ‘Same Boat’ Stealthily filmed nautical thriller makes its Windy City debut at MIFF’s First Tuesday monthly event The Midwest Independent Film Festival presents the Chicago premiere of Same Boat, as part of the festival’s First Tuesdays screening series, directed by Chris Roberti and written by Chris Roberti and Josh Itzkowitz. Same Boat is the story of a … Continue reading “MIFF to host Chicago premiere of ‘Same Boat’” MIFF holds St. Paddy’s weekend Spring Donation Drive Donate now for a chance to win Cubs tickets, White Sox tickets, and $100 restaurant gift certificates The Midwest Independent Film Festival has announced a Spring Donation Drive to run the duration of St. Patrick’s Day weekend to help fund operational and programming costs associated with the festival. To help encourage support, each multiple of … Continue reading “MIFF holds St. Paddy’s weekend Spring Donation Drive” DePauw and DePaul’s “King Rat” on Amazon Prime “It was either go to grad school or just make a movie right now, and I decided to just make a movie.” Writer / Director Henry Johnston DePauw University and DePaul University alumni teamed up to create King Rat – a feature film that utilized university resources to take a meta look at the graduation … Continue reading “DePauw and DePaul’s “King Rat” on Amazon Prime” Chicago’s Asian Pop-Up Cinema, March 12 – April 24 Consolidated series presents premieres, partner screenings, special guests and sixteen films, from across the Asian continent Non-profit pan-Asian film organization Sophia’s Choice today announces Asian Pop-Up Cinema – Season Eight, the spring film series presenting sixteen films from across Asia, running March 12 through April 24, 2019. The schedule represents a consolidated schedule, with more … Continue reading “Chicago’s Asian Pop-Up Cinema, March 12 – April 24” Patrick Creadon signs with Backyard Productions Award-winning, docu-style storyteller brings “captivating” talent to West Coast shop Culver City, CA-based production company, Backyard Productions, has signed director Patrick Creadon for exclusive U.S. commercial representation. Known for his strong visual approach and unique ability to draw authentic performances out of his subjects, Patrick marries bold and striking visuals with compelling storytelling. Based in … Continue reading “Patrick Creadon signs with Backyard Productions” Kartemquin announces 2019 Diverse Voices fellows Chicago doc powerhouse selects eight young filmmakers who will be eligible for up to $20K in in accelerator fund grants The 2019 DVID Fellows (pictured above) Top row, from left to right: Shiraz Ahmed, Aisha Allen, Joua Lee Grande, Milton Guillen | Bottom row, from left to right: Sebastián Pinzón-Silva, Shawn Taylor, Cai Thomas, Christine … Continue reading “Kartemquin announces 2019 Diverse Voices fellows” Light Modifiers launches new rental division Experienced film pros offer a storehouse of gear and expertise just four blocks away from Chicago’s Cinespace Studios Light Modifiers Chicago has been providing exceptional and friendly lighting and grip services in the Midwest filmmaking community for over four years. Combining a substantial inventory of gear and professional expertise, the company created an amazing product … Continue reading “Light Modifiers launches new rental division” Richard Roeper to appear at MIFF nomination event The Chicago journalist and film critic will join Executive Director Amy Guth to discuss to discuss “The State of Independent Filmmaking” The Midwest Independent Film Festival has announced a new format their annual Best of the Midwest Awards, starting with a live nomination announcement event and screening on Tuesday, December 4th. At the event, nominations … Continue reading “Richard Roeper to appear at MIFF nomination event” Explore Media adds two new directors A pair of LA-based pros with wide-ranging commercial and film experience join the busy Chicago shop (Chicago — 24 October 2018) Explore Media, a commercial production company with headquarters in downtown Chicago, has announced the addition of Directors Dinh Thai and Christian Clark to its expanding roster. “We’re very excited to join forces with Dinh … Continue reading “Explore Media adds two new directors” “Two in the Bush” premieres at MIFF tomorrow night “This film is for the queer community, the sex worker community, and the polyamorous and non-monogamous communities” Laura Madalinski The Midwest Independent Film Festival will host the Midwest premiere of romantic comedy Two in the Bush: A Love Story as part of the festival’s First Tuesdays screening series. The modern romantic comedy takes a wise … Continue reading ““Two in the Bush” premieres at MIFF tomorrow night” Director Hans Emanuel sows in with Seed Emanuel often incorporates contemporary, youthful lifestyles with body movement, dance and rhythm   Director / choreographer Hans Emanuel has rejoined Roy Skillicorn’s production company, Seed Media Arts. Having lived in Europe, Mexico and in the USA, Emanuel wields a cultural polish that few can claim. At the start of his career, he developed a sexy … Continue reading “Director Hans Emanuel sows in with Seed” Applications open for Kartemquin Diverse Voices in Docs Kartemquin will award grants ranging from $5-$10K to individual DVID fellows (Chicago — 6 September) — Applications are now open for Diverse Voices in Docs (DVID), a mentorship program for Midwestern documentary makers of color organized by Kartemquin Films and the Community Film Workshop of Chicago. Eight Midwest filmmakers will be selected from those who … Continue reading “Applications open for Kartemquin Diverse Voices in Docs” Thornley directs The Imperial Sound’s ‘A Man Like You’ Commanding vocals and Tower of Power-style horns make an audiovisual sensation that jumps with nearly four minutes of soulful good times Melissa Thornley tapped into some of the best things about Chicago’s film industry and music scene while directing and producing the video for The Imperial Sound’s “A Man Like You.” Besides mixing the group’s … Continue reading “Thornley directs The Imperial Sound’s ‘A Man Like You’” Asian Pop-Up Cinema returns to Chicago September 12 Features seventeen films from across the Asian continents, presents premieres including Japanese zombie comedy “One Cut of the Dead” as Closing Night — tickets on sale now (Chicago — 13 August 2018) — Non-profit pan-Asian film organization Sophia’s Choice today announces Asian Pop-Up Cinema – Season Seven, the fall film series presenting seventeen films from … Continue reading “Asian Pop-Up Cinema returns to Chicago September 12” Digital Media Fund awards $100k to Chicago artists Voqal Fund and Chicago Filmmakers’ Chicago Digital Media Production Fund presents a Showcase of Groundbreaking Projects from 2018 (Chicago — 8 August 2018) Voqal Fund and Chicago Filmmakers are pleased to announce the nine new grantees receiving funding from the 2018 Chicago Digital Media Production Fund. In 2018, the Production Fund awarded a total of … Continue reading “Digital Media Fund awards $100k to Chicago artists” Windy City Horrorama call for entries Submissions for the international April 26-28 Windy City Horrorama are being accepted via Film Freeway   The second annual Windy City Horrorama will bring the horror to Lincoln Square’s Davis Theater once again next Spring on April 26th – April 28th​, 2019.​ Horrorama is in search of the scariest and most fun work in the … Continue reading “Windy City Horrorama call for entries” “Louder Than Words” is a testament to Deaf Culture “It kind of makes sense,” says Filmmaker Saj Adibs. “We would want deaf children to hear, but for deaf parents, it’s normal to be deaf.”   Filmmaker Saj Adibs was nearly moved to tears by the story of a deaf couple he met on a project for his company New Slate Films in 2008. “They … Continue reading ““Louder Than Words” is a testament to Deaf Culture” Reel Women: Joyce Porter, Actor Joyce Porter is a busy and well-known actor in the Chicago film community. After receiving her M.A. in Theater from Northwestern, she had a long and satisfying career as a professor of theater, film, and humanities at Moraine Valley Community College in Palos Hills. One of the many classes she developed was an advanced acting … Continue reading “Reel Women: Joyce Porter, Actor” IFP welcomes new Exec Director Gregory Collins Raised in Kenya with over fifteen years in the film industry, Collins brings extensive experience and international perspective to organization’s future   (Chicago — 26 June 2018) IFP Chicago, a non-profit that supports filmmakers at every stage of production and presents the annual Chicago Underground Film Festival, today announces a new phase of leadership as … Continue reading “IFP welcomes new Exec Director Gregory Collins” Cinepocalypse fest from June 21 – 28 at Music Box A cornucopia of classic genre screenings, premieres, and events to take place at Chicago’s iconic Music Box Theatre.     From June 21st through June 28th, a cornucopia of genre screenings and events will take place at the Music Box Theatre for its second annual Cinepocalypse. The film festival grinds together a gory cocktail of … Continue reading “Cinepocalypse fest from June 21 – 28 at Music Box” “Battle on the Breakwall” thrills Ready Freddy crowd Battle on the Breakwall transforms rock-paper-scissors into a hilarious throwdown of gestures, personality, and style   (Chicago — 8 June 2018) Playing to a packed house in The Den Theater, the short film Battle on the Breakwall delighted the audience at the Ready Freddy Film Festival with the lighthearted and surprising humor that has come … Continue reading ““Battle on the Breakwall” thrills Ready Freddy crowd” Reel Women: Jenny Lumpkin, Agent and Producer Jenny Lumpkin is the international Artist Agent and Senior Producer for Quriosity Productions. Politely referred to as “Q #2”, she is armed with a BFA in both graphic design and creative writing from the Kansas City Art Institute. Besides offering an intimate understanding of the art of visual communication in advertising and entertainment, Jenny is … Continue reading “Reel Women: Jenny Lumpkin, Agent and Producer” Thrush joins STORY for exclusive ad representation (Chicago — 1 May 2018) Director Laurence Thrush has joined STORY for exclusive representation for advertising work in the United States. Thrush brings high regard for his naturalistic storytelling and cinematic style, which he has applied to commercials for diverse international and national brands, including ESPN, HP, Amstel Light, McDonald’s, Mastercard and Honda. Among his … Continue reading “Thrush joins STORY for exclusive ad representation” “Geek Lounge” leads comedy lineup at May’s MIFF Larry Ziegelman’s funny poke at geek culture will be one of several short films and web series screening at the May 1st Midwest Independent Film Festival 2018 Comedy Shorts Night. The evening begins with a panel discussion about crowdfunding. According to acting MIFF director Mike Kwielford, a handful of filmmakers will get real about what … Continue reading ““Geek Lounge” leads comedy lineup at May’s MIFF” Mel Routhier promoted to ECD of DDB Chicago, more Earlier this week, DDB announced the promotion of popular Mel Routhier to Executive Creative Director from her previous position of Group Creative Director. Routhier and fellow ECD Colin Selikow will both report to DDB Chicago CCO John Maxham. With her promotion to ECD, Routhier will continue overseeing the creative for State Farm, one of the … Continue reading “Mel Routhier promoted to ECD of DDB Chicago, more” Kartemquin’s Oscar-nom’d docs headline MIFF The Midwest Independent Film Festival announced that April’s First Tuesday will be a celebration of sorts for Chicago’s own Kartemquin Films with a special double feature showcasing both of their 2018 Academy Award Nominated films on April 3! Screening will be Abacus: Small Enough to Jail and Edith and Eddie. Helmed by acclaimed director Steve … Continue reading “Kartemquin’s Oscar-nom’d docs headline MIFF” Reel Women: Marina Killion, Audio Engineer Marina Killion is an accomplished audio engineer based in Chicago. She has been at Optimus for nine years, where she is currently Senior Audio Engineer. She does everything from sound design, dialog editing, Foley, ADR, to final mix. Marina has a background in classical music performance, studying Sound Recording Technology at DePaul University. She has … Continue reading “Reel Women: Marina Killion, Audio Engineer” Karabas, “Real Prayers,” “Make Out Party,” and more RSA Films promotes Chris Karabas to executive producer Before the promotion, Chris Karabas was the Midwest representative for RSA Films. In his new role, Karabas is expected to utilize RSA Films’ resources to branch out into multiplatform storytelling – especially social media. Previously, Karabas worked for Shafer Antelis Music in the early 90s, was a … Continue reading “Karabas, “Real Prayers,” “Make Out Party,” and more” Don’t “Think Twice”: watch this short Chicago filmmaker Eliaz Rodriguez drove to the suburbs, locked himself in a Motel 6, and wrote a hilarious, violent, and relationship-driven script for a short film called Think Twice. Since then, the film has claimed twelve awards and enjoyed a 50-festival run, including a screening at Cannes.   Think Twice begins when Tess (Tamara Chambers) … Continue reading “Don’t “Think Twice”: watch this short” In response to #metoo, MIFF teams with LiftUPLift Led by acting Director Mike Kwielford, The Midwest Independent Film Festival (“MIFF”) has teamed up with nonprofit LiftUPLift Worldwide in order to create a safer, more inclusive and harassment-free environment for all its participants. LiftUPlift Worldwide is an Illinois-based 501(c)3 nonprofit organization whose mission is to end sexual violence by promoting awareness and prevention. Founded … Continue reading “In response to #metoo, MIFF teams with LiftUPLift” “A Tragedy,” “Blow Job” highlight MIFF shorts program It’s a new month, and that means we are only days away from they Midwest Independent Film Festival’s monthly First Tuesday screening. Hosted by the nation’s only film festival solely dedicated to the Midwest filmmakers, the event provides audiences with regionally produced independent cinema.     Led by the world premiere of A Tragedy, the … Continue reading ““A Tragedy,” “Blow Job” highlight MIFF shorts program” The Reel Black List: Qadree Holmes, Visionary EP Qadree Holmes has successfully risen from intern to production assistant to producer and, finally, to the Founder / Executive Producer of Quriosity Productions. While line producing, he recognized a significant shift in the market — clients and agencies were seeking integrated creative talent options to represent the different social channels now available. Conversely, they did … Continue reading “The Reel Black List: Qadree Holmes, Visionary EP” Yearlong spike in business fuels expansion at The Colonie The Colonie has promoted and hired several employees to accommodate a surge in broadcast and social media work that began in 2017, according to a press release issued today. “There’s been an increase in commercial and social media projects, as well as integrated broadcast and online campaigns,” explains Mary Caddy, Executive Producer and Partner. “The … Continue reading “Yearlong spike in business fuels expansion at The Colonie” Barry Burdiak leaves DDB for Epsilon, other recent moves Barry Burdiak leaves DDB for Epsilon Barry Burdiak, a nearly 30-year veteran of DDB Chicago, has left the agency to lead data-driven Epsilon Chicago as Senior Vice President, Executive Creative Director. He’ll focus on new business efforts for new and existing clients. A mutiple Cannes Lion winner and Emmy nominee, he will report to a … Continue reading “Barry Burdiak leaves DDB for Epsilon, other recent moves” The Reel Black List: Harold Dennis, Actor Harold Dennis is an American actor with twenty years in the business and over one hundred and fifty film credits. Dennis enjoys playing complex characters with a myriad of conflicts and realizes how fortunate he is to do it. Here are five films you can watch right now on YouTube: Hellraiser: What’s Your Pleasure, The … Continue reading “The Reel Black List: Harold Dennis, Actor” Review of “I, Tonya” Just nominated for three Academy Awards this morning (Best Actress, Best Supporting Actress and Best Editing) I, Tonya is not made to satisfy anyone hoping to find an ironclad explanation for the events surrounding the 1994 attack on Nancy Kerrigan. The film opens with the following disclaimer: “Based on irony-free, wildly contradictory, and totally true … Continue reading “Review of “I, Tonya”” “Chicago P.D.” star to host tonight’s BMAs Awards season continues and if it’s December, it’s time for the 13th annual Best of the Midwest Independent Film Awards, aka “The BMAs.” If you are like Miriam and living on Mars and were not aware of the BMAs, the awards celebrate the finest in Midwest filmmaking, selected from an exceptional slate of films screened … Continue reading ““Chicago P.D.” star to host tonight’s BMAs” Potenza and Daily Planet win Chicago Emmys There were many smiling faces at the 59th annual regional Emmy Awards Saturday night. Sponsored by the Chicago/Midwest chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences, the awards show was streamed live on WGN-TV.com from the Swissotel Hotel. Both Potenza Productions and Daily Planet Productions, Ltd came away with Emmys. Potenza — which … Continue reading “Potenza and Daily Planet win Chicago Emmys” Havas, Escape Pod, MIFF, Thor, Larry David in the news Anna Parker promoted to Chief Strategy Officer at Havas Havas Chicago announced that it has promoted Anna (Newburn) Parker to Chief Strategy Officer. She joins Havas Chicago’s executive leadership team which includes Paul Marobella, Jason Peterson, Tatia Torrey, Jennifer Marszalek, Lisa Evia and Angelo Kritikos. Considered a major contributor to the transformation of the Havas … Continue reading “Havas, Escape Pod, MIFF, Thor, Larry David in the news” Cap Gun signs director Raúl B. Fernández Award-winning director Raúl B. Fernández has joined the Chicago roster of Cap Gun Collective. Besides wielding a significant body of work for international brands like Chevrolet, Amazon, Coca-Cola and Durex, he also boasts a Cannes Lion and a D&AD Pencil. The Argentinian-born lensmaster lived throughout the western hemisphere for much of his youth before settling down at the University of Southern California’s School of Cinematic Arts long enough to earn a Masters in film. Rodgers Townsend’s CEO, Harries’ novel, Bauer’s win St. Louis agency, Rodgers Townsend announced today the appointment of Andrew Dauska as Chief Executive Officer. Effective August 30, Dauska will partner with Michael McCormick, EVP and Chief Creative Officer, taking over from Tim Rodgers, one of the agency’s two founders, as he enters retirement. Dauska leaves TBWA\Chiat\Day, where he served as Managing Director and lead client partner for Nissan North America.