| Reel Chicago – At the intersection of Chicago Advertising, Entertainment, Media and Production
Reel Chicago is a daily digital magazine that covers the news in Chicago on all aspects of advertising, film, TV, media and production. The content is original, written by industry experts and contributing Op Eds
The Chicago-based, collective presents a variety of films that explore the “complexity to the experience of being a woman.” On Saturday night, Women of The Now will showcase a variety of “femme-driven narratives made by some of Chicago’s top up-and-coming female-identified filmmakers,” for its Second Anniversary Screening at Chicago filmmakers. The program will begin with … Continue reading “Women of the Now Anniversary Showcase”
Last weekend’s 2018 Women of the Now Anniversary Showcase inspired every emotion that people want from the movies while weaving a thread of feminism into an enjoyable afternoon matinee. The superbly professional collection of shorts — presented on Sunday at the New 400 Theaters in Rogers Park — represented work from some of the most … Continue reading “Women of The Now’s Anniversary Showcase”
The East Coast networking collective “Women of the Now” will bring its passion for empowering female filmmakers to Chicago with an upscale carnival-themed event entitled “Femme Pyre” at Pilsen’s Camera Ambassador on March 4.
Frequent theatre collaborators director Erica Weiss and writer Caitlin Parrish are heading an independent feature being produced by an all Chicago cast and a crew primarily staffed by women.
They are co-directing the coming-of-age drama now filming in North Side neighborhoods and the western suburbs and scheduled to wrap Nov. 9.
Tom Jordan’s new book, “Re-Render the Gender,” exposes the “vicious circle” at the heart of the advertising industry: women make or influence over 80% of all purchases, but men create 70% of all advertising.
The key to solving the disconnect lies not only in altering messaging, but also in changing the internal dynamics of a male-dominated industry, says Jordan, Hoffman York’s president and executive creative director.
Most creative departments will scorn the book, he feels.
After 1.5 years in “soft launch” mode, Jumble & Flow officially launches in October, during Menopause Awareness Month. With the oldest millennials turning 40 this year, Jumble & Flow founder Amy Cuevas Schroeder says the midlife industry is just starting. Menopause products make up a reported $600 billion market opportunity. Jumbleandflow.com readership has grown to 50,000 monthly pageviews in the last … Continue reading “Did you know the oldest millennials are turning 40 this year?”
Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot joined other City and community leaders for a celebratory virtual event to commemorate Women’s History Month by honoring 24 community leaders for their commitment to supporting and advocating for the City of Chicago. “As only the second female Mayor of Chicago, I know that the success of our great city has … Continue reading “Mayor Lightfoot honors Chicago’s women community leaders”
Editor’s Note: They are leaders. They are inspirational. They are mentors. They are visionaries. They are, quite frankly, badasses. They are our 2021 REEL WOMEN. During Women’s History Month, you will be able to meet these incredible personalities in Advertising, Entertainment, Media and Production. Get ready, they are making “Herstory.” Founder of the ‘Every Damn Day … Continue reading “REEL WOMEN: Alison Hammer, FCB VP Creative Director”
Editor’s Note: They are leaders. They are inspirational. They are mentors. They are visionaries. They are, quite frankly, badasses. They are our 2021 REEL WOMEN. During Women’s History Month, you will be able to meet these incredible personalities in Advertising, Entertainment, Media and Production. Get ready, they are making “Herstory.” Production sage with an eye for … Continue reading “REEL WOMEN: Lisa Masseur, EP/Founder Tessa Films”
In recognition of Women’s History Month, Grubhub is strengthening and expanding its commitment to grow the number of women-led restaurants, especially those impacted by COVID. It was four years ago with the creation of RestaurantHER that Grubhub first started using its technology platform to drive change and respond to the issues facing women in the restaurant industry. … Continue reading “Grubhub expands commitment to women culinary leaders”
In their new campaign, Nintendo celebrates the everyday game play embraced by students, mothers, and celebrities alike. Gaming stereotypes often depict a young, male gamer. In reality, women make up 49% of the gaming community, though many companies don’t treat them as the major players they are in the industry. Enter: Nintendo. To speak directly … Continue reading “Women grab their Nintendos by the controllers”
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. Karolyn Raphael, President of Winger Marketing, with more than … Continue reading “REEL WOMEN: Karolyn Raphael, Pres, Winger Marketing”
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. With over 20+ years of award-winning creative and video … Continue reading “REEL WOMEN: Snake Roth, Dir of Integrated Prod, MARC”
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. Megan Donnelly is the Technical and Educational Development Manager … Continue reading “REEL WOMEN: Megan Donnelly, Training Mgr, AbelCine”
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. Grace is a Polish-American filmmaker native to the Northwest … Continue reading “REEL WOMEN: Independent Filmmaker, Grace Pisula”
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. Prior becoming a Locations Manager and founding Chicago Locations … Continue reading “REEL WOMEN: Valerie Bulinski, Locations Manager”
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”
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. Laurie is a native Chicagoan who enjoys being a … Continue reading “REEL WOMEN: Laurie Adrianopoli, EP Sales/Mktg at Carbon”
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. Emily joined Optimus in 2018 from Beast where she … Continue reading “REEL WOMEN: Emily Hayes, Editor at Optimus”
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. Hana is a professional film and video editor with … Continue reading “REEL WOMEN: Hana Mitchell, editor at Impakt Studio”
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. Meg began her editorial career at Whitehouse Post in … Continue reading “REEL WOMEN: Meg Kubicka, Editor at Whitehouse”
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. Siobhan Summers is supervising producer at Bottle Rocket Media, … Continue reading “REEL WOMEN: Siobhan Summers, Bottle Rocket Media”
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. Rujanee is an award-winning filmmaker and an educator based … Continue reading “REEL WOMEN: Filmmaker, Rujanee Mahakanjana”
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. Mary graduated from The School of The Art Institute … Continue reading “REEL WOMEN: Mary Caddy Partner at The Colonie”
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. April Wright is an award winning filmmaker who brings … Continue reading “Reel Women: Award-winning filmmaker, April Wright”
The Motion Agency celebrated International Women’s Day by inviting dozens of industry guests to a panel discussion and networking event titled, “Our Focus Our Future,” at their River North office on Friday afternoon. Described as “20 Women Leading the Way in 2020,” the highlight of the program featured nearly two-dozen female executives and entrepreneurs answering … Continue reading “Motion salutes Women’s Day with ‘Our Focus Our Future’”
In a new campaign from FCB Canada, Bank of Montreal (BMO) is taking a public stand to promote women’s financial empowerment. In celebration of International Women’s Day, the campaign sheds light on stereotypes and terms like “gold digger” and “trophy wife” that, over time, can erode a woman’s financial confidence. This initiative raises awareness of … Continue reading “BMO & FCB championing financial confidence for women”
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. A highly accomplished Agency Executive Producer, Lisa spent nearly … Continue reading “Reel Women: Lisa Effress, Managing Partner 11 Dollar Bill”
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. Emily Dell is the Executive Director of the ScreenCraft … Continue reading “Reel Women: Emily Dell of ScreenCraft Writers Summit”
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. Brenda Webb started at Chicago Filmmakers in 1978 as … Continue reading “Reel Women: Brenda Webb, Chicago Filmmakers Exec Dir”
In a joint FaceBook Live announcement on Friday, January 24, Merry Green of MGPG Events and Chelsea Whittington of C WHITT PR shared that the boutique communications firm based in Gary, Indiana has been selected to deliver promotional services for the 2020 Black Women’s Expo. Now in its 26th year, the BWE is the longest … Continue reading “C WHITT named official PR firm for Black Women’s Expo”
Facilitating conversations on gun control in America, the Chicago-made short examines a timely theme After screening at the Chicago Social Change Film Festival and winning Best Cinematography and Best Film at the Chicago Feedback Festival, Now & Not Yet is on a roll. Produced by Redleg Films and filmed in March 2019, Now & Not … Continue reading “Redleg’s ‘Now & Not Yet’ makes strong festival run”
Chicago filmmaker Okema “Seven” Gunn skillfully weaves important lessons into a light-hearted tale about four young girls Cursive writing leads the way to teenage enlightenment in A Sisterhood of Signatures, a Chicago-made short screening September 21st at the Oak Park International Film Festival. Written and directed by Seven Okema Gunn, the 17-minute film presents the … Continue reading “Getting to know ‘A Sisterhood of Signatures’”
Inspired by a 2018 Golin PR campaign, Have Her Back launches as a company dedicated to “driving change for gender equity” Three proven business leaders driving change for gender equity — Caroline Dettman, Erin Gallagher and Pamela Culpepper — are joining forces to launch Have Her Back Consulting (HHB), an independent company. Interpublic Group … Continue reading “IPG invests in new women-owned consultancy”
mcgarrybowen and the US Tennis Association enlist Billie Jean King to encourage fans to share highlights of the female athletes who inspire them mcgarrybowen and the United States Tennis Association (USTA) have developed a win / win / win situation for female athletes, sports fans, and women around the world. Beginning on Opening Day of … Continue reading “#WomenWorthWatching aims to level the playing field”
The founding member of the Fort Meyers Beach International Film Festival is also a White Sox fan Janeen Paulauskis is a former Chicago girl (go Sox!) born and raised in Bridgeport. She began her career at the Chicago Convention and Visitors Bureau working registrations at conventions and becoming the Housing Manager at age 21. Janeen … Continue reading “Reel Women: Janeen Paulauskis, Executive Director”
OKRP’s creative phenom talks about family, work, evolving attitudes towards women, and tropical drinks Emily Walton is an Associate Creative Director (Art Director) at O’Keefe Reinhard & Paul where she helps lead the Chili’s business. Having visited over 40 countries, Emily looks to her experiences abroad to inspire her work, which has also made its … Continue reading “Reel Women: Emily Walton, advertising pro”
The creative star from OKRP talks about life, career, and the “uniquely powerful feeling of woman-ness” Sarah Uchison is an Associate Creative Director at O’Keefe, Reinhard & Paul in Chicago. Since graduating from DePaul with a BA in Advertising, she’s made a name for herself at shops like Upshot, Leo Burnett and We Are Unlimited, … Continue reading “Reel Women: Sarah Uchison, advertising pro”
The mcgarrybowen creative leader and SheRunsIt Working Mom of the Year describes how she is “still figuring it out” Susan Betteridge has made a profound and positive impact on a lot of people since moving to Chicago from Grand Rapids nearly two decades ago. Besides clients and coworkers at mcgarrybowen, where she has been a … Continue reading “Reel Women: Susan Betteridge, Group Creative Director”
From marketing and development to screenwriting, Zacuto Studios’ leader of business operations offers a little bit of everything Melissa Kennedy leads the business operations for Zacuto Studios, which is owned by Zacuto USA. Prior to joining Zacuto in early 2017, Kennedy was in broadcast marketing and worked with media companies based out of Chicago. She … Continue reading “Reel Women: Melissa Kennedy, media professional”
These filmmakers are not only naturally funny, but they’ve also been honing their chops in professional arenas for years One of the most unique film collections of the year will light up the creative business incubator 2112 next week. The Chicago Women in Comedy’s Comedy Short Screening will culminate a six-month workshop designed to help … Continue reading “Women in Comedy’s inaugural Short Screening”
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”
Yasmin is a first-generation West African who has travelled the world, but still feels right at home in her native Chicago, where she spent the last four years as part of the team at Quriosity Productions. From intern to Associate Producer, Yasmin’s climb to success did not come without her pulling up her sleeves to … Continue reading “Reel Women: Yasmine Gorleku, Producer”
Emily Esperanza is a filmmaker and artist whose passions lie in discarded aesthetics, liminal spaces, guerrilla approaches, and unconventional narrative. An advocate of rebellious voices in cinema, Emily is the founder and a co-curator of WRETCHED NOBLES, a Chicago-based immersive monthly film/video screening shorts program. Co-produced by Full Spectrum Features, Emily’s new film, Make Out … Continue reading “Reel Women: Emily Esperanza, Filmmaker”
Jacquelyn Jamjoom is a film and television producer serving as Executive Producer of Chicago based film production company Digital Hydra. At Digital Hydra, Jacquelyn has produced internationally renowned TV series’, feature films, music videos and commercial content for brands such as McDonalds, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Blackhawks and Facebook. Jacquelyn also serves as contract producer and … Continue reading “Reel Women: Jacquelyn Jamjoom, Executive Producer”
Sarah Clark has worked professionally in the film industry for eight years. Casting has always been her bread and butter, but she’s also an Emmy Nominated producer and professional screenwriter. Sarah been lucky to work on films like August Osage County, to The Wonder, Rudderless, and many many more. Sarah has seen thousands of actors … Continue reading “Reel Women: Sarah Clark, Casting Director”
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”
Elise Jaffe is the “spokes teeth” and Executive Producer of Big Teeth Productions, which she co-owns with her husband Gregg. She’s also known as “Little Miss Bossy Pants,” a title that appeared on her business card BEFORE Tina Fey’s Bossy Pants was published! Elise’s career began in Children’s Television at Reading Rainbow and Blue’s Clues. … Continue reading “Reel Women: Elise Jaffe, Executive Producer”
Erin Sarofsky established her company, Sarofsky Corp., in January of 2009 in Chicago’s booming West Loop neighborhood. Sarofsky Corp. specializes in design-driven production, working with a broad range of clients in the advertising, broadcast, network, film and entertainment industries. Erin and her team of talented artists and producers are best known for creating gorgeous, … Continue reading “Reel Women: Erin Sarofsky, ECD / entrepreneur”
Sophia Wong Boccio, 王曉菲, was born and raised in Hong Kong by parents who were part of Hong Kong’s film industry from the 1950’s through the 70’s. Her father (Wong Tsao-she, or Wang Zhao-xi 王朝䂀) was an award-winning editor with the Motion Picture and General Investment Co.Ltd, (國際電影懋業有限公司, MP & GI/電懋 in short) later reorganized … Continue reading “Reel Women: Sophia Wong Boccio, Festival Director”
After earning a degree in advertising art design, Laura Roeper found her way into photography as a prop stylist, then as a studio manager. She eventually gained years of experience as an in-house art producer in the advertising industry before launching an extensive freelance career working with photographers as well as agencies. Seeking more … Continue reading “Reel Women: Laura Roeper, Assistant Prop Master”
Having never spent a day in college, Mindy learned by doing. She learned by watching and by mirroring some of the greatest creative and production people in the ad business. And after three decades of award winning producing and client service, her end goal always remained simply this: to always make our audio post sessions … Continue reading “Reel Women: Mindy Verson, Production Leader”
Carey Lundin is a multi award-winning director, writer and producer specializing in comedic digital series, media for progressive candidates, and documentaries. Lundin recently directed and co-wrote The WORST Travel Show, a five-episode comedy / travel series for the newly launched Facebook Watch and WatchMojo. Her digital series, Citizen Kate, The Outsiders’ View of Inside … Continue reading “Reel Women: Carey Lundin, Filmmaker”
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”
Laurel joined mcgarrybowen in 2009 and currently serves as President of the Chicago office. In addition to her agency responsibilities she continues to lead the Disney Parks and Resorts account. Prior to mcgarrybowen, she fine-tuned her skills during a ten-year stint at Fallon Minneapolis, working with such clients as EDS, Nikon, and Citi. Her efforts … Continue reading “Reel Women: Laurel Flatt, President, mcgarrybowen/Chicago”
Life is short, so make sure to enjoy playing in the great sandbox!” I dive into things I dream of, and 2017’s Lost ‘n’ Found was no exception. I had the privilege directing some exceptional talent in our six-episode package. In addition to directing, I also produced the episodes. In hindsight, it was … Continue reading “Reel Women: Monica Zaffarano, Producer”
Jeanne Caliendo is a born and bred Chicagoan who graduated from Columbia College with a degree in film. By her own admission, she has had “one fulltime job my entire life.” “I worked at Studio Lighting, which was absorbed by Essanay,” she explains. “I did a little bit of everything, until I found my niche … Continue reading “Reel Women: Jeanne Caliendo, “Chi Med” co-producer”
Born in Tehran, Iran, Kamelya Alexan moved to Chicago when she was five-years-old, where she was raised. Kamelya has worked on and completed over twenty-five projects including documentaries, shorts, music videos, and feature films such as The Dark Knight, Public Enemies, and The Express. Her most recent film, Before the Fall, won Best Editing … Continue reading “Reel Women: Kamelya Alexan, Filmmaker”
Wendy Jo Carlton directed her first feature film, Hannah Free, starring Emmy-winner Sharon Gless, in 2009. Hannah Free won several Audience awards and is globally distributed. Carlton’s second feature, Jamie and Jessie are Not Together, is often described as the first lesbian romance musical. Written and directed by Carlton, Jamie and Jessie won Audience awards, … Continue reading “Reel Women: Wendy Jo Carlton — Filmmaker”
Ericka L. Mauldin, nicknamed “Media Maven,” is an Accomplished, American, Television Producer and the Owner of EDIT TALENT GROUP and Chicks That Pitch. In additon, the Visionary behind Black Girl Media Magic and Black Industry Makers. Ericka received a BFA in Electronic Media from the University of Cincinnati and an MBA from Xavier Cincinnati and … Continue reading “Reel Women: Ericka Mauldin — MBA”
Nancy Reid has spent over twenty years in the film and video production community specializing in video marketing and television programming. She has worked as a television / corporate communications producer and General Manager for some of the most prestigious film and video production and post-production facilities in Chicago. She has managed projects for major … Continue reading “Reel Women: Nancy Reid — Producer”
Layne Marie Williams is an award winning director / filmmaker currently located in Chicago, IL. She is the Founder/Executive Director of Women Of The Now, an all womxn collective producing media and events to empower and nourish womxn. Layne Marie is the CoFounder / Director of Development for The Women’s Film Festival in Philadelphia, PA. … Continue reading “Reel Women: Layne Marie Williams — Filmmaker”
McDonald’s has a long-history of supporting women in the workplace, giving them the opportunity to grow and succeed. To take their support a step further, the fast-food giant has literally flipped their iconic logo in recognition of International Women’s Day. Yes, the “M” (arches), which is usually untouchable, has been turned into a “W.” “In … Continue reading “McD’s Golden Arches flip for International Women’s Day”
Sheila Brown is a Chicago native who is Executive Director of the CineCares Foundation at Cinespace Chicago Film Studios. Sheila developed a desire for professional success early in life. She obtained her first job at age 15. Seven years later, Sheila began her career in broadcast television where she was fortunate enough to work alongside … Continue reading “Reel Women: Sheila Brown — Media Entrepreneur”
Christina Wollerman was an actor in New York City for nearly a decade, appearing in Manhattan theaters as well as national productions that toured up and down the East Coast and throughout the Midwest. Determined to expand beyond the stage, she returned to her native Chicago and pursued her inspiration to become a screenwriter. In … Continue reading “Reel Women — Christina Wollerman, Screenwriter”
Brenda Robinson is an entertainment attorney and Chicago native who currently serves as Director of Business Development for the Los Angeles law firm Greenberg Glusker LLP. Brenda’s prior law practice focused on intellectual property and entertainment matters on behalf of clients in the music, film and television industries. Throughout her career, Brenda has provided counsel … Continue reading “Reel Women: Brenda Robinson, Attorney & Philanthropist”
Stacie Boney is new president of Hanson Dodge Women’s History Month starts off with big news: former Energy BBDO executive Stacie Boney has been named by Milwaukee-based Hanson Dodge as its first female president. Boney succeeds Tim Dodge, who is said to be staying with the integrated marketing agency as CEO. She came to the … Continue reading “Women dominate latest wave of industry activity”
Does it take a “gal” (see what I did there?) to save the much-maligned and divisive DCEU?
After the critical floggings of Man of Steel, Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice and Suicide Squad, it would seem 4th time is the charm as Wonder Woman is a massive critical success.
Coming in at a 94% fresh tomato rating on Rotten Tomatoes, the Amazonian Princess looks bound for a commercial success as well.
THE FEATURE “SOARING” is the latest project of producer Joe Orlandino of Atlas Media Group, working with writer Amy Danford-Klein, a former corporate pilot who wrote the screenplay as a tribute to the Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASPs) of WWII, whose records were sealed and classified for 35 years.
Multi-talented artist, NK Gutiérrez, began her journey as a screenwriter just four years ago when she wrote her first short film “The Last New Year.”
Now its Chicago premiere screens Aug. 19 at Gene Siskel Center’s 22nd Black Harvest Film Festival.
The raunchy comedy, with its in-your-face sex talk, tells the story of Alyssa (played by Gutiérrez) who has not gotten laid in three years. With the support of her bestie, Shayna (Adrienne Walker), Alyssa embarks on a journey to end her dry spell and have an amazing bedroom romp before the clock strikes midnight on New Year’s Eve.
MULTI-HONORED JEAN BATTHANY has departed DDB as ECD/EVP after four years to join Walt Disney Parks and Resorts as VP / Global Creative in LA. A native New Yorker and an art director by profession, with more than 20 years experience, Batthany has been an advocate for changing the ratio of men to women in creative leadership roles.
At DDB she received tons of industry awards including Women in Film’s Focus Award, Business Insider’s Most Creative Women in Advertising and the Keith Reinhard People Award. Chicago will miss her.
DDB WON BIG with Fiat Chrysler’s Jeep Business, which was shifted from FCB Chicago and became the lead agency on the account. In January DDB also became the lead agency on FCA’s Alfa Romeo account.
Mark Harris is both a prolific filmmaker and one of the last men standing. He has turned out 18 indie films over a dozen years and now finds himself among a handful of Chicago’s African American filmmakers in what was once a large and strong community.
A series of documentaries by women directors is Chicago Filmmakers’ first event to help benefit the renovation of the historical landmark fire house it purchased to house the non-profit media arts organization and have it become a community resource.
FOX TV IS SO PLEASED at the cooperation, professionalism and ease of working here on the smash hit “Empire,” that it sent production of two pilots here. They started shooting last Monday at Cinespace Studios and city neighborhoods and will wrap Friday, March 27.
Both pilots have women protagonists for a change of pace.
THREE WOMEN FILMMAKERS whose work premieres in the 50th Chicago International Film Festival, join two local producers in a Community Cinema screening and discussion of Makers: Women In Hollywood Saturday, Oct. 18 at the Chicago Cultural Center.
Xan Aranda, who is producing the documentary, Mormon Movie, with Kartemquin Films, spent a week on a 100-acre scenic Vermont farm last month as one of 12 women filmmakers of color who were chosen for NALIP’s inaugural Artist Retreat Center (ARC) for Women Filmmakers of Color
POST PRODUCER CARRIE HOLECEK, former executive producer at Red Car Chicago, returns to Chicago Thursday, Sept. 11 for the first time since she left Chicago last year after Red Car’s abrupt closing.
Amelia Dellos’ documentary Love Under Fire: The Story of Bertha & Potter Palmer, will have its broadcast premiere March 24 over Ch. 11 at 5:30 p.m. as part of the station’s slate of Women’s History Month programming.
Love Under Fire tells the love story of Bertha Honoré and Potter Palmer (the original founder of Marshall Field’s and Palmer House fame), who together were instrumental in rebuilding Chicago after the 1871 Great Fire.
In her decade as executive director of the Chicago Sketch Comedy Festival, and years more performing with and managing the Cupid Players, Jill Valentine has seen a steady rise in the prevalence of women comedians.
“With so many comedy institutions in Chicago, we are training more comedians every year,” Valentine says. “Ten years ago you might be the only woman in class. Today the classes are strewn with women and you can see a lot more female teachers too.”
Breaking into first person voice is not something I ordinarily do, nor do I single out special interests. However, I’m making an exception to flag your attention to a special event, something else I don’t usually do.
It’s Women in Film’s Kickoff party/membership drive on Thursday, Jan. 27, which I believe is an essential connection for any woman who is serious about a film/visual media career
ELAINE MADSEN, the Emmy-winning producer, writer, and longtime Chicagoan, appears at the Beverly Arts Center on Nov. 22 with a free screening of her documentary “I Know a Woman Like That,” produced by her daughter Virginia.
“I Know a Woman Like That” profiles 16 women over age 70 who are leaders of their respective fields, including singer Eartha Kitt, actress Rita Moreno, and writers Gloria Steinem and Maxine Hong Kingston.
Madsen won an Emmy for her documentary about Chicago filmmaking, “Better Than It Has To Be,” which aired on NBC and PBS.
Paul Traynor of Hay Moon, Inc. is entering the second half of post-production on his debut feature “Witches’ Night,” a “smart horror movie for adults.”
Traynor described the low-budget film as “a throwback to the horror movies of the ?70’s” aimed at the 18-to-35-year-old male demographic.
“We think there are some smart and fun elements about this movie that may appeal to women and slightly older audiences, but we’re going to stick to the basics” of gong after the 18-to-35 yer old male demographic, he said.
The Women in Film Foundation has given writer-producer Rosie Vargas Goldberg the final push to complete her debut feature “Bloom.”
The foundation chose “Bloom,” formerly known as “Hopeless,” as one of nine projects nationwide to receive a Film Finishing Fund grant, an undisclosed amount paid for by General Motors.
Vargas Goldberg said the grant will cover the final HD master, DigiBeta screening tapes and festival submissions.
“It certainly helps,” she said. “The Women in Film Foundation thinks I’m doing something good.
Bridges Media Group VP/sales Jennifer Polk and new business director Danielle Ostrowski feel this is a prime time for the renaissance of a once valuable and vibrant Chicago film organization.
That would be Women in Film/Chicago, a mentoring/networking/career development group that flourished in the 1980s and 1990s, but fizzled out as women moved to the coasts or dropped out of the industry entirely as local opportunities diminished.
Polk and Ostrowski are well on their way to reestablishing WIF/C as a newly vital force.
Ruth Leitman’s feature documentary, “Lipstick & Dynamite, Piss & Vinegar: The First Ladies of Wrestling,” is one of four Chicago-made features that will premiere during the Oct. 7-21 Chicago International Film Festival.
Koch-Lorber picked up North American rights excluding premium cable for “Lipstick & Dynamite” after its U.S. debut at the Tribeca Film Festival last May.
The company is blowing the picture up to 35mm for a 30-50 city theatrical release next February, said Leitman, a School of the Art Institute professor.
After Pakistani immigrant Shahpara Sayeed was burned to death by her husband in his cab on the North Side of Chicago on Aug. 24, 2000, filmmaker Satish Menon was struck by the reaction Sayeed’s murder received in the news media.
“They had all these academics and experts commenting about why would this woman stay with her husband in an abusive relationship, why wouldn’t she leave?” Menon recalled.
Documentarian Faith Pennick was talking with her schoolteacher friend about abortion in the context of national elections when her friend made a statement that would set Pennick on a mission.
“She said, ‘abortion is a white women’s issue ? black women have more important things to worry about,'” Pennick recalled. “After I picked my jaw up off the floor, I could see why she said it.
Filmmakers Hossein Khandan and Shahin Yazdani followed three Chicago women artists through a day in their lives that was like any other, with one exception ? the three women faced this day under the full face and body covering known at the burqa, worn by Afghani women under the Taliban regime.
Seven women have set out to accomplish what it took 14 men to do before.
The Women’s Cliffhanger Project is a more streamlined, structured version of the improvisational filmmaking process that produced last year’s surprisingly popular feature “The Cliffhanger.”
“All 14 directors of the first ?Cliffhanger’ were men, and it showed in the work,” said Jason Stephens, president of Split Pillow, the non-profit he founded last year to foster and market improv film as a distinct Chicago art form.
Tonight, Women of the Now’s first ever film-themed variety burlesque, Cinematic Sexuality, will play two separate shows in the West Loop’s Fulton Market Gallery space.
Designed with fun in mind, the event’s lineup includes dancers, comedians and DJs, as well as an open bar stocked with wine, beer and a variety of spirits from sponsor CH Distillery.
Join The Midwest Film Festival exclusively on Facebook Live on Tuesday, February 9th from 6 PM – 7 PM CST for a panel conversation led by industry pros. They’ll share their vast knowledge and experience in running the festival circuit and the success they’ve had. All attendees who register via Eventbrite will automatically be entered to win … Continue reading “Running the festival circuit with Midwest Film Festival”
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. She claims her mom named her after Twin Peaks … Continue reading “Reel Chicago’s own Reel Woman, Laura Day”
When many Americans find themselves at a loss navigating a constant stream of “fake news,” we should be grateful when a reporter like CNN’s Anderson Cooper has well armed himself with the facts, and doesn’t hesitate to cite them. In his recent interview of Rod Blagojevich, Cooper diligently refutes the Governor of Chicago’s defense of … Continue reading “Yes, Anderson Cooper swore at Blagojevich on live CNN”
Relative Film LLC announces today the cast of Relative, the fourth feature film from Michael Glover Smith (Rendezvous in Chicago, Mercury in Retrograde), which is scheduled to shoot on the far north side and near-north suburbs of Chicago for two weeks in May. Relative is a comedy/drama about three days in the lives of a … Continue reading “Michael Glover Smith’s ‘Relative’ filming in May”
Long-awaited Chicago-made adventure tale reflects collective film community effort Chicago filmmaker Layne Marie Williams released the trailer for her long-awaited short film, Scutly, earlier today. Scutly tells the story of three young ladies who call themselves The Pastel Girls. Wearing complementary outfits of pink, blue, and purple, the trio accentuates their colors with astounding bursts … Continue reading “Layne Marie Williams unveils official ‘Scutly’ trailer”
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”
“You can make a good movie for $20,000 and a good film for $100,000, but you shouldn’t use the same script for both.” Michael Glover Smith Michael Glover Smith’s Rendezvous in Chicago will make its hometown premiere with four screenings at the Gene Siskel Film Center in February 2019. On the festival circuit, the feature-length … Continue reading “‘Rendezvous in Chicago’ hometown premiere at the Siskel”
A summertime collection of spots and trailers that recently caught staff writer Colin Costello’s eye. There is a thrilling amount of commercial and film production coming out of Chicago, even with summer Fridays. Here’s a look at some of the work that tickled our fancy this week. Watch, get inspired and go catch a … Continue reading “Work that caught our eye week of 7/9”
Five-year-old celebration relocates from Bloomington to the Windy City, where it will light up one of the North Side’s most popular cinemas (Chicago — 21 May 2018) This September marks the fifth annual Middle Coast Film Festival, but its first in Chicago. The Middle Coast Film Festival (MCFF) is scheduled to run from Thursday, … Continue reading “Middle Coast Film Fest makes Davis debut September”
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””
Despite Patty Jenkins directing one of the highest grossing films of 2017, Wonder Woman, or Dee Rees getting huge buzz for her debut film, Mudbound, or Greta Gerwig having the highest reviewed film of 2017 in Lady Bird, not one of them were nominated for a Golden Globe. Only Gerwig was nominated for a DGA … Continue reading “Fiji vows to raise $100K for AFI female directors”
About one month ago, I wrote an editorial in response to the Weinstein scandal. I wrote about my personal experiences working in the film industry — and those of my peers — and discussed how those experiences are symptomatic of a culture wherein abusers like Weinstein have been allowed to thrive. This story is intended … Continue reading “How to fight sexism in the film industry”
As a young woman working in the film industry, I can’t say the Weinstein scandal surprised me. Instead, I’m experiencing the routine bittersweet cocktail of emotions I get every time a story of sexism and rape culture makes the news. I’m sad for the women who were abused and sadder still to think about the … Continue reading “Chicago producer’s take on the Weinstein scandal”
Spousal abuse, post-traumatic stress disorder and attempted murder all make appearances in the opening scenes of The Haven, but creator/writer Mia McCullough describes the webseries about life in a domestic violence shelter as a “dramedy.”
“Shelters are a lot happier than people imagine,” she says. “But it’s hard to tell the story of someone going to a shelter in a funny way.”
“Femme Pyre,” Saturday night’s carnival themed fancy dress party at Camera Ambassador, prompted hundreds of guests to keep going until Sunday morning. This may have been due to the fact that there was a kissing booth, tarot card readers and at least three different kinds of dancers (belly, burlesque and go-go); but still, the event actually made “networking” fun.
The 63rd Chicago/Midwest Emmy Awards will be a virtual presentation held on Sunday, December 5 at 7:00 pm. Comedian Pat McGann, the South Side Chicago native who hosted the Chicago/Midwest Emmy Awards in 2016 and 2020, returns to emcee the show this year and legendary Bob Newhart is expected to make a guest appearance. The virtual presentation … Continue reading “List of nominees for the 63rd Chicago/Midwest Emmy Awards Dec 5”
Ashley C. Battle and Chris Vanderwall join the directorial roster of ONE, the production arm of Optimus. The latest in a series of moves marking significant growth for the leading production and post house, the new directors further expand ONE’s creative offerings. Battle brings visual storytelling and fashion expertise, and Vanderwall excels in performance-driven pieces, docu-style work, and comedy. … Continue reading “One at Optimus signs directors Ashley C. Battle and Chris Vanderwall”
CMP and Mezcla Media Collective have developed a unique partnership and are honored to launch the SHIFTING VOICES FILM FUND, the first national grant coming out of Chicago to support Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC) filmmakers. “We are thrilled to be working in tandem with Mezcla Media Collective on this inaugural fund. Their … Continue reading “CMP and Mezcla Media Collective announce shifting voices Film Fund”
Community Film Workshop of Chicago (CFWC) in collaboration with Melanated in America, will kick-off a yearlong celebration of its 50th Anniversary with an Industry Mixer. Saturday, November 6th at Harriet Harris Park, 6200 S. Drexel Avenue, from noon-2pm. Prolific novelist and activist James Baldwin once stated, “Not everything is faced can be changed, but nothing can … Continue reading “CFWC to host 50th Anniversary Industry Mixer Nov 6th”
Chicago-based OTV has partnered with Guadalajara’s Estudio Teorema for its latest #BraveFutures Film Race in an effort to democratize the film industry. A rare opportunity to produce, exhibit, and distribute original film and audiovisual content internationally has become much more attainable for Guadalajaran content creators with the launch of #BraveFutures Guadalajara – Open Television’s (OTV) … Continue reading “OTV partners with Estudio Teorema for #BraveFutures Film Race”
PrideArts announces the PrideArts Fall Film Festival, a month long festival of 32 films from 9 countries that will stream online in four segments, each available online for one week. Films address a wide range of issues and situations that are common across many cultures: defining oneself as an LGBTQ person, family relations, forming and … Continue reading “PrideArts Fall Film Festival will stream in four weekly programs”
Full Spectrum Features will be the official presenter at the 28th Annual Chicago Underground Film Festival this year in order to program more diversity, equity, and inclusion to represent a wider range of artists and voices, including women, BIPOC, and LGBTQ+ filmmakers. Chicago Underground Film Festival (CUFF), the the world’s longest-running underground film festival, will … Continue reading “Full Spectrum official presenter of Chicago Underground Film Fest”
The Chicago International Film Festival announces the winners of its 2021 competitions. Celebrating its 57th edition October 13 – 24, 2021, the Chicago International Film Festival is North America’s longest-running competitive international film festival. In a virtual ceremony live-streamed via the Chicago International Film Festival YouTube channel, the Festival awarded prizes in the following categories: … Continue reading “Winners of the 57th Chicago International Film Festival”
Irene Michaels, who will be singing with the ensemble, OUR HOUSE at the Jazz Showcase on Monday, October 18, continues to reinvent herself with an impressive list of adventures. She has transitioned from being a dancer to a model, actress, producer, singer-songwriter, entrepreneur, Beauty & Luxury Lifestyle Expert, product developer, best-selling author, award-winning equestrian, and … Continue reading “The reinventions of Irene Michaels”
FACETS 38th Annual Chicago International Children’s Film Festival (CICFF), one of only two Academy Award qualifying international children’s film festivals in the world, presented from Friday, Nov. 5 through Sunday, Nov.14. FACETS is pleased to offer limited in-person screenings as well as the entire festival available via national streaming. The in-person screenings will take place at FACETS, 1517 W. … Continue reading “FACETS 38th Annual Chicago International Children’s Film Fest”
The One Chicago franchise hits another major milestone as Chicago Fire films their 200th episode. Our friends at Chicago Fire shared these exclusive photos as the cast and crew celebrated the filming of episode 200. This is an amazing milestone and a rare celebration that the majority of shows never experience. Here’s the official information … Continue reading “Chicago Fire hits 200 and we have the celebration pics”
The Chicago International Film Festival (CIFF) announced the Opening Night After Dark feature, Halloween Kills, the new chapter in the iconic four-decade horror franchise starring Jamie Lee Curtis and co-written and directed by David Gordon Green. In 2018, David Gordon Green’s Halloween, starring Curtis, killed at the box office, earning more than $250 million worldwide, becoming the highest-grossing chapter in the four-decade … Continue reading “Jamie Lee Curtis in Halloween Kills to open CIFF After Dark”
At the September 30th Committee on Budget and Government Operations meeting Retiring Cultural Affairs and Special Events Commissioner Mark Kelly said filmmaking is “significantly up” in Chicago. A record 15 television productions are currently in the city including 61st Street, The Chi, Chicago PD, Chicago Fire, Chicago Med, Work in Progress, Paper Girls, Light Years, … Continue reading “Filmmaking in Chicago is ‘significantly up’ with record breaking production”
The Chicago International Film Festival announced the full lineup of its 57th edition, running October 13 – 24, 2021. This year’s Festival expands across the City, with screenings at AMC River East 21, Music Box Theatre, Gene Siskel Film Center, drive-in screenings at ChiTown Movies in Pilsen, and neighborhood pop-up screenings at Bronzeville’s historic Parkway … Continue reading “Chicago International Film Festival announces full lineup of 57th edition”
Global creative audio network Squeak E. Clean Studios has promoted Julie B Nichols to Creative Director after two years as a senior composer with the company. A renowned Chicago-based composer, songwriter, director and producer, Nichols has over a decade of experience as a well-rounded musician composing across commercials, film, live theater and her with band The Chicago Soul … Continue reading “Squeak E. Clean promotes composer Julie B Nichols to Creative Director”
NBC has released a dramatic new trailer promoting the upcoming new season of Chicago Fire, Chicago Med and Chicago PD. This emotionally charged teaser brings together the cast of all three One Chicago dramas. With less than two weeks until the season premiere, we get our first look at scenes from the upcoming Season 10 of Chicago Fire, Season … Continue reading “One Chicago Wednesdays are back soon. Here’s the new trailer”
The past year has been a chaotic one for movies as the Covid-19 pandemic has forced countless films to either move to VOD, release in a hybrid manner in theaters and VOD, or delay their release dates. Jordan Peele’s horror sequel Candyman was delayed several times until its eventual release on August 27, 2021 exclusively … Continue reading “Jordan Peele’s Candyman shakes up the critics on opening day”
Showtime’s brilliant series Work in Progress is back for a second season. The hit series revolves around the life of a 45-year-old self-identified fat, queer dyke, Abby (Abby McEnany) as she encounters death, doubt, suicide and depression while becoming an altogether likable heroine. Abby McEnany, creator, writer, and star of series is a fixture in … Continue reading “Work in Progress: the concept, the talent, and plans for Season 2”
Asian Pop-Up Cinema: Season 13 will present 30 films at an in-person and drive-in festival, with select titles available for online streaming. The festival opens September 15 through October 12, at AMC River East 21, The Davis Theater and ChiTown Drive-In. The programming celebrates the best Asian-centric cinema, with new work made by filmmakers from China, … Continue reading “Asian Pop-up Cinema season 13 celebrates best Asian-centric cinema”
Following a successful first year, ONE School, the groundbreaking free portfolio school for Black creatives, has opened applications for its Fall 2021 programs run out of Atlanta and Chicago. The results-oriented online program has already made a substantial contribution to adding diversity to the industry: six cohorts run out of Atlanta, Chicago, Los Angeles and … Continue reading “ONE School opens applications for Fall in Chicago”
After walking away with three Grammys for his 2016 record, Coloring Book, Chicago artist Chance the Rapper set out to perform a concert like no other. The private concert was held at Cinespace Chicago Film Studios back in 2017 for a select group of fans and intentionally staged and filmed as a movie, Magnificent Coloring World. … Continue reading “Editor Ariana DeSimone of Optimus teams with Chance the Rapper”
In an industry dominated by men behind the camera, female colorist and editor Jennifer Gaida is a rarity. Gaida is currently a colorist at Chicago-based, The Colonie, a full-service post-production facility specializing in creative editorial, motion graphics, color grading, VFX and finishing. Founded in Chicago in October of 2008, the post-house was established to create … Continue reading “Coloring the world with The Colonie’s Jennifer Gaida”
The 2021 AICP Next and Post Awards debuted virtually this week in New York during AICP week, recognizing creative excellence in new and emerging media. Chicago post-houses and agencies did take home wins during the ceremonies. Utopic The post-house had a big win last night at the AICP Post Awards. Craig Lewandowski was honored with a win … Continue reading “AICP: Utopic, DDB, Cutters, Highdive rep Chicago in Next and Post Awards”
Derek Dalton, president and general manager of WBBM-Channel 2 was ousted Thursday from his position, as part of the pruning of top management at CBS-owned stations in Chicago, New York and Los Angeles. This followed a six-month investigation into alleged wrong-doing within CBS’ stations group Robert Feder reports. The moves continue an impressive management makeover … Continue reading “WBBM-Channel 2 Station Manager fired for misconduct”
Mic performance tips from an engineer, Dave Kresl on how to get better in the studio. So we have selected a microphone and set up a home studio, now what? Well get to cranking out auditions and recordings! One of the best outcomes from doing a lot of them is that your microphone technique gets … Continue reading “We can’t be Prince… but we can learn to work the mic”
Kartemquin Films announces the two projects that will participate in the second year of the Hulu/Kartemquin Accelerator: Freedom Hill by director Resita Cox and Still Searching by director Latoya Flowers. The Accelerator program offers two alumni of Kartemquin’s acclaimed Filmmaker Development Programs $20,000 each towards production, and mentorship through 2021 within the award-winning Kartemquin collaborative … Continue reading “Hulu/Kartemquin Accelerator program picks two alumni”
Black voices and stories are too often unheard. In its 2020 #AmplifyBlackVoices work, Doritos recognized this and is now launching SOLID BLACK, a new multi-platform initiative backed by action and funding designed to bolster the voices of Black innovators and creators and provide them with resources to continue driving change. In total, Doritos will invest … Continue reading “Doritos launching SOLID BLACK multi-platform initiative”
FCB Chicago received eight One Show Gold Pencils this year. They include four Golds with FCBX, Lord + Thomas and Current Global, all in Chicago, for the City of Chicago “Boards of Change” (three in Design, one in Digital Craft), three with FCB New York, Lord + Thomas, and Myles Beeson, both in Chicago, for Michelob ULTRA “Contract for Change” in Integrated, … Continue reading “One Show: FCB Chicago wins eight Gold Pencils”
Steppenwolf Theatre Company to honor Tony Award and two-time Golden Globe and Screen Actors Guild Award winner Annette Bening and trailblazing leader in the film industry Sherry Lansing as the 2021 Women in the Arts honorees. For the 11th anniversary of this beloved event, the honorees join Steppenwolf ensemble member Carrie Coon for a live conversation about their award-winning careers and their impact … Continue reading “Steppenwolf honors Annette Bening and Sherry Lansing”
On Friday, May 21 at 8:00 pm on all WTTW platforms, Ida B Wells, a one-hour Chicago Stories special and companion website, paints a deeply humanizing portrait of a woman who was uncompromising in her quest for justice. The program tells her story through interviews with her descendants and Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Nikole Hannah-Jones, creator of the Ida B Wells … Continue reading “Ida B. Wells ‘Chicago Stories’ premiere tonight on WTTW”
On Thursday, May 20, Free Spirit Media celebrates 20 years of media magic, 8,000+ participants, 50,000+ unique pieces, and 1,000,000+ views. This momentous occasion demarcates how its participants have used media to create the world they envision-past, present, and future. Free Spirit Media, a North Lawndale based, Emmy award winning nonprofit and social enterprise has … Continue reading “Free Spirit Media celebrates 20 years of Media Magic”
This is tasty. In a fun new spot for Land O’Frost’s Bistro Favorites and Chicago agency Merge, STORY director Ky Dickens shows that, when it comes to sandwiches, beauty is in the eye of the maker. In this case, makers. Featuring a good-looking, flirty couple prepping sandwiches in a split screen, each applies special touches … Continue reading “STORY’s Ky Dickens gets flirty with sandwich making”
Show mom you care this Mother’s Day by gifting her with something a little more interesting than a foot massager. We’ve done a little window shopping and have come up with several top picks to ace this Mother’s Day. This list is full of the best affordable gifts for all kinds of moms: the one … Continue reading “Your cheat sheet for unique gift ideas for Mother’s Day”
Full Spectrum Features, the Chicago-based non-profit committed to driving equity into the film industry, announced the five producers selected for its second annual Chicago Independent Producers Lab, a year-long project incubator designed to cultivate Chicago’s vibrant independent film industry. In partnership with the Chicago Film Office’s Independent Film Initiative, the Lab offers one-on-one customized mentorship … Continue reading “Chicago Independent Producers Lab selects 5 producers”
This week’s Chicago P.D., Due Process begins with Voight (Jason Beghe) participating in a press conference being held by Deputy Superintendent Samantha Miller (Nicole Ari Parker) where she talks about how she’s very proud of the process and her dedication to “transparency” and the “rule of law.” She’s questioned about accountability when a journalist mentions … Continue reading “RECAP: Chicago P.D. ‘Due Process’”
This week’s Chicago Fire, Natural Born Firefighter opens with Casey (Jesse Spencer) finally seeing a doctor while Brett (Kara Kilmer) sits impatiently in the waiting room. He explains to the doctor that he’s having vision issues, and the doctor sends him to get an MRI because it’s possible he’s having “temporal lobe seizures” that could … Continue reading “RECAP: Chicago Fire ‘Natural Born Firefighter’”
The 37th Chicago Latino Film Festival announces the winners and runners-up for the Audience Choice Awards. The Audience Choice Award for Best Feature went to The Heist of the Century, Argentinian director Ariel Winograd’s heist comedy about the most famous and audacious bank robbery in Argentina’s history starring Guillermo Francella (The Secret in Their Eyes) … Continue reading “37th Chicago Latino Film Audience Choice Award wins”
Cameras are set to roll next month on the new Apple series The Shining Girls starring Emmy Award winner Elisabeth Moss (Mad Men, The Invisble Man), for its streaming service. Leonardo DiCaprio’s Appian Way is set to produce. Described by Los Angeles-based MRC Entertainment as “a metaphysical thriller,” and not to be confused with the … Continue reading “Handmaid Tale’s Moss to shoot new series in Chicago”
After the success of her critically acclaimed debut book, You and Me and Us: A Novel, Chicagoan Alison Hammer, VP creative director at FCB Chicago, is releasing her second book, Little Pieces of Me: A Novel on April 13, 2021 complete with an exclusive virtual launch party for all pre-orders! After featuring Alison as a … Continue reading “Alison Hammer, VP/CD at FCB releases second novel”
Deb Snyder’s creative path of acting has been a nomadic, long, and winding road of self-discovery beginning from her early days in Chicago and leading all the way to Los Angeles, where she now appears on ABC’s mixed-ish. As a recurring guest star, Deb plays ‘Dolores’ on the hit series that follows black-ish’s Rainbow Johnson … Continue reading “Chicago actress “mixes” it up on hit ABC sitcom”
The City of Chicago announced today that the new state of the art firehouse designated as Engine Company 115 is open for immediate operations. Located at 1024 West 119th street, this structure is the largest firehouse ever constructed in the city proper at 27,000 square feet. Engine company 115 will house 2 Engines, 1 Tower Ladder, 2 … Continue reading “Chicago’s newest largest firehouse is open for operations”
Chicago Filmmakers announces the 2021 call for applications for the Chicago Digital Media Production Fund (CDMPF), a grant designed to support Chicago-based filmmakers and digital media artists whose work encourages social change. The fund will award up to $100,000 in cash grants to support locally-made, web-based digital media projects. The application window will be open … Continue reading “Chicago Filmmakers seeks projects for CDMPF grant”
Miller Lite announces the launch of the Miller Lite Level Up Fund, a $100,000 grant program that aims to provide financial support to uncelebrated communities in the gaming world. Coinciding with International Women’s Day on Monday, March 8, the Fund will raise awareness for the inspiring female streamers that deserve greater recognition and access to … Continue reading “Miller Lite Level Up Fund announces $100k grant for IWD”
Chan C. Smith, a Chicago native who’s taken her skill as a storyteller to such genres as publishing, media and documentary film, is set to make her mark on the advertising scene by signing with Tessa Films. This is the director’s first representation agreement for advertising and branded content. Her signing was announced by Tessa … Continue reading “Chan C. Smith brings her storytelling skills to Tessa Films”
Kartemquin Films announced the addition of three esteemed new members to the organization’s board, including Abby Kang Davis, Patrice Perkins and Shirley Yang. The three additions join the board ahead of the Chicago documentary production non profit’s April board meeting. Kartemquin’s board is now comprised of 16 members, led by Chair Pamela Sherrod Anderson. “I am delighted to welcome these three dynamic women to … Continue reading “Kartemquin Films appoints three new board members”
Production of new single-cam, mockumentary style comedy series Zen Room is set to commence early March after news of Cheri Oteri (former SNL cast member, Grown Ups 2) joining the cast as lead, executive producer, and writer. While plenty of film production has been shuttered due to Covid-19, actress and writer Ashley Joyce (Gilmore Girls, … Continue reading “Production set to begin on Zen Room this spring”
Safe Humane Chicago announced today a virtual fundraising screening event of Magnolia Pictures’ new, upcoming documentary Stray, directed by Independent Spirit Award-nominee filmmaker Elizabeth Lo. The virtual screening event scheduled for March 5th-21st, 2021, will support the Safe Humane Chicago nonprofit organization, who will receive a portion of all ticket sales, and their continued efforts … Continue reading “Safe Humane Chicago hosts screening of Stray”
Writer, producer, and Chicagoan Harry Bauer has found a way to exhibit his creativity in a series of short fan films based on The Fantastic Four comic books. As we all know, comic book fans are passionate about their characters. With the huge growth of film festivals dedicated to fan films such as the GeekFest, … Continue reading “New Fantastic Four fan film is faaaaantastic”
Chicago-based filmmaker Richard Cohen explores the depths of isolation in Postcards From Home, a series of one-act vignettes about the affects of the pandemic. The ten-minute episodes feature intimate testimonials from characters explaining how COVID has affected their lives. Black Blue Man is an African American consumer’s awkward trip to a car dealership. Southern Popcorn … Continue reading “‘Postcards From Home’ personalizes the pandemic”
Burrell Communications Group announced today that it will honor its “golden anniversary” year by launching a new community engagement initiative, “50 Acts of Kindness.” Created in tribute to 50 years of connecting some of the world’s most powerful brands with Black communities, the agency pauses at this milestone to express gratitude to the people, clients … Continue reading “Burrell celebrates 50 Years of Black Storytelling”
This is no laughing matter. New York-based private equity firm ZMC announced today that it has acquired The Second City, the world’s premier brand in improvisation and sketch-based comedy entertainment and education. Founded in Chicago in 1959, The Second City is an iconic brand that has become the most influential and prolific comedy empire in the world. … Continue reading “Iconic Second City acquired by New York-based ZMC”
Rain Beau’s End is an intimate lesbian family-drama situated in the late 1990s, depicting how the labelling of their adopted son affects a progressive lesbian couple’s relationship as they struggle to raise their family in the spotlight. Based on a story by Chicago’s Joe Orlandino and written by Jennifer Cooney, the film tells a motherhood … Continue reading “Chicago Med, Fire actors in Rain Beau’s End”
NBC has released new stills from this week’s exciting Chicago Fire season 9 episode 7. The episode, “Dead of Winter,” is very timely as we have just had 19″ of snow dumped on us and we’re still under a winter storm watch. The new photos, which NBC released, indicate that Chicago Fire will also be experiencing the … Continue reading “Check out new stills from tomorrow’s Chicago Fire”
Valentine’s day is just around the corner and with the global pandemic, many couples are choosing to stream movies at home “and chill”. There are many romantic movies filmed in the windy city and we’ve taken the time to compile a list of the top ten best romantic films set in Chicago that you can … Continue reading “Our Top 10 Valentine’s Day Chicago films”
Chiara Chung will rep Union Editorial as well as its sister finishing and VFX company, Hunter. The companies are handled by Melissa Ross of Melissa Represents on the West Coast, and the team of Katrin Aul and Katie Goldstein on the East Coast. Keith Quinn is Union’s Director of Development. “We’ve taken a long time … Continue reading “Union Editorial chooses Chiara Chung as midwest rep”
This Black History Month, AT&T Dream in Black presents the return of Black Future Makers, a future-forward celebration of inspirational people in the culture. The campaign was announced via a commercial celebrating frontline workers and everyday heroes from Chicago in a spot voiced by NBA superstar, philanthropist and entrepreneur LeBron James. James is also one of this … Continue reading “LeBron James, AT&T celebrate Black Chicago”
NBC has released new photos from this week’s upcoming Chicago Med season 6 episode 6. Titled, Don’t Want to Face This Now, Dr. Choi helps a patient with chronic pain find a solution. Dr. Halstead considers a new path. Dr. Charles and Anna bond over a scary situation. Chicago Med viewers will know that Halstead (Nick … Continue reading “Chicago Med releases pics ahead of tonight’s episode”
Congratulations to Highdive for once again landing atop of USA Today’s Admeter. The agency’s two 60-second Super Bowl LV spots for Quicken’s Rocket Mortgage were ranked number one and two. In 2020, Highdive scored the number one spot with Jeep. The spot featured a recreation of the hit romcom, Groundhog Day, and brought back Bill … Continue reading “Chicago agency Highdive soars again in Super Bowl”
NBC has released new photos from this week’s upcoming Chicago Fire season 9 episode 6. Titled Blow This Up Somehow, Gallo (Alberto Rosende) makes a split-second decision during a dangerous fire rescue leaving Casey (Jesse Spencer) steaming that his direct orders were not obeyed. Kidd (Miranda Rae Mayo) feels a strain in her relationship with Severide. … Continue reading “‘Chicago Fire’ releases photos from new episode”
If you’re an NBC OneChicago (Chicago Med, Fire, P.D.) fan then you won’t want to miss this virtual event tomorrow, Feb. 10 at 4 PM CST. One Day Chicago will go live. It’s described as a one hour fan event to include Actor-Guided set tours, cast trivia, social giveaways and more. Actor David Eigenberg, who … Continue reading “‘OneChicago Day’ goes live Feb 10 on YouTube”
Don’t get Super Bowl fatigue just yet. There’s a little bit more to our roundup. Cheetos is the big winner in strategic ad rankings with its “It Wasn’t Me” ad in the 17th consecutive Kellogg School Super Bowl Advertising Review. Other brands that earned top marks include Amazon, Bud Light Seltzer, Doritos, and Indeed. Not all advertisers had … Continue reading “Cheetos wins 2021 Kellogg School Super Bowl Review”
Despite the CBS All-Access crashing right at kick off. Despite a somewhat lame, yet spectacle-laden Half-Time Show thanks to “Should have been nominated for a Grammy” The Weeknd. Despite atrocious ref calling. Super Bowl LV was a historic telecast as we saw the oldest NFL coach Bruce Arians, 68, and the oldest QB Tom Brady, … Continue reading “OKRP Creatives weigh in on Super Bowl ads”
NBC has released new photos from this week’s upcoming Chicago P.D. Season 8 Episode 6. Titled Equal Justice, Halstead and Ruzek try to infiltrate a crime ring and encounter a complicated situation. The team recruits an unlikely ally to help solve a murder. ALSO READ: Chicago Med showrunners talk Covid and favorite stories NBC‘s streaming … Continue reading “‘Chicago P.D.’ releases photos from upcoming episode”
Heading into the Super Bowl, the question on my mind was “How much of 2020 is going to wind up in the 2021 Super Bowl ads?” Mercifully, it wasn’t all that much. Not that there weren’t important issues to talk about, but we leaned so heavily into messaging around the pandemic and social issues this … Continue reading “Laughlin Constable’s John Maxham on Super Bowl ads”
Cadillac’s electric future is illuminated with a “slice” of nostalgia from Tim Burton’s Edward Scissorhands universe, in a new commercial debuting in the fourth quarter of this year’s big game. The new spot, from Leo Burnett Detroit and directed by O Positive’s David Shane, stars Timothée Chalamet, as Edward Scissorhands’s son Edgar, and Winona Ryder, … Continue reading “Not Edward, Edgar Scissorhands in Cadillac LYRIQ”
It’s the Friday before the big game, so expect a slew of Super Bowl reveals today. Guaranteed Rate, has announced that the newest ad in its national brand campaign, Believe You Will, will air Sunday. The theme line has a very Yoda-ish vibe about it. Created by Guaranteed Rate’s in-house team, the campaign focuses on the power … Continue reading ““Believe You Will” in Guaranteed Rate’s SB spot”
For many Chicago football fans, as well as fans across the country, Super Bowl is far more than just a game: it’s a sacred American tradition. Fans aren’t just spectators, but are also participants. They do more than just proudly wear a team’s jersey, perfect game-day chili or tailgate with fellow fans. But as passionate … Continue reading “Where does Chicago rank for football fans?”
Chicago’s Ravin Gandhi made many people think he was crazy for shooting 100 Days to Live, an award-winning, suicide-based thriller debuting this week on Amazon, Apple and several other platforms. After pitching the film in 2017, the fledgling writer/director decided not only to finance the script that he had written, but also to temporarily relocate … Continue reading “Gandhi’s journey from Google search to first feature”
Lunar New Year is a time to set aside the old while welcoming the new. As many people across the country anticipate the Year of the Ox, in the spirit of celebrating new beginnings and the start of the lunar calendar, McDonald’s has partnered with 88rising, a leading global Asian artist collective, to create the … Continue reading “McDonald’s preps Lunar New Year with 88rising”
Sooooo, you’re bumming from a crappy Feb 14, don’t despair. Screw a heart-shaped box of chocolates. Feb 15. marks the day that McDonald’s brings back Shamrock Shake Season to make you feel like spring has sprung. Kinda nice too, given the cold hitting Chicago right now. Shamrock fans, can join the Golden Arches in … Continue reading “McDonald’s shakes things up with the Shamrock Season”
During the Super Bowl, commercial breaks are notoriously swamped with beer advertisements. A certain, other beer brand seemingly controls the ad space – so much so that Coors is legally locked out from playing on TV screens nationwide during the Big Game. However, AB has announced it is sitting out Super Bowl LV this year. … Continue reading “Coors Light, Seltzer Big Game ad runs in dreams”
Safelite AutoGlass, the nation’s largest provider of vehicle glass repair, replacement and recalibration services, today announced the selection of FCB Chicago as its creative agency of record. Beginning this month, FCB will be responsible for elements of Safelite’s consumer campaign and communication materials, including broadcast, online video, social media and digital channels. The win comes on the heels … Continue reading “Safelite feels protected with FCB as Agency of Record”
Hornitos Tequila, a premium tequila brand founded on the belief that nothing great happens without taking a chance, today announced its newest advertisement titled First Steps. The spot, which evolves the brand’s empowering A Shot Worth Taking marketing campaign, is a rallying cry for those who wonder what if? and serves as a reminder that … Continue reading “Hornitos Tequila releases empowering new ad First Steps”
Film Independent announced nominations for the 2021 Film Independent Spirit Awards. Not just another pretty face on the awards circuit, the Spirit Awards are the primary fundraiser for the nonprofit Film Independent’s year-round slate of programs, which cultivate the careers of emerging filmmakers and promote diversity and inclusion in the industry. Film Independent President Josh … Continue reading “Film Independent Spirit Awards announces nominations”
The American Film Institute (AFI) announced today the recipients of AFI AWARDS 2020. AFI’s global Movie Club program will showcase the official selections beginning in February, with new and exclusive content released daily, including special guests from the honored works introducing the titles and AFI’s “Behind the Scene” conversations with filmmakers and actors. AFI MOVIES … Continue reading “‘Ma Rainey’ ‘Chicago 7’ top AFI’s Top 10 List”
Minority owned New York ad agency HERO Group (aka HERO Collective) filed suit against Omnicom-owned agency DDB in Illinois Northern District Court court this week, alleging DDB “exploited” HERO to win the U.S. Army contract and didn’t pay it for two years of work. Chicago-based Swanson, Martin & Bell and Beverly Hills-based Singh, Singh & … Continue reading “Minority New York agency sues DDB over Army account”
Lee England, Jr.’s We The People opens with a serene orchestral vibe that kind of sounds like the beginning of Beethoven’s 9th Symphony. From there, it goes into a mélange of wind, trees and surf before moving into a deep cello melody that introduces the first line of verse: “They’re killing us in the streets.” … Continue reading “Lee England Jr. starts conversation for America”
Legendary comedy institution The Second City announces the recipients of a new scholarship for diverse comedic talent in partnership with Saturday Night Live. The creation of the SNL Scholarship, announced in October, was designed to grant comedians at varying levels of experience the opportunity to further their professional development at The Second City. In addition to receiving performance and writing … Continue reading “Second City, ‘SNL’ announce scholarship recipients”
Chicago’s premiere tap collective, M.A.D.D. Rhythms, has announced its 20th Anniversary Season. In 2021, the company continues to make a difference dancing rhythms with its yearlong celebration featuring video premieres, special events coinciding with a new documentary and M.A.D.D Rhythms publishing debut, social media happenings, classes and the Chicago Tap Summit. Bril Barrett, founder of M.A.D.D. … Continue reading “M.A.D.D. Rhythms kicks off 20th season with King tribute”
Cinedigm has announced the release date for its recently acquired film – 100 Days to Live, a taut psychological thriller set in the world of suicide prevention and mental health. The film, which was shot over 3 weeks in Chicago, stars Colin Egglesfield (Something Borrowed, Rizzoli & Isles), Gideon Emery (Teen Wolf, Daredevil), Heidi Johanningmeier … Continue reading “‘100 Days to Live’ directorial debut for Chicago filmmaker”
Editor’s Note: In 2020, the world changed right before our very eyes. Ad agencies, production companies and post houses were forced to adapt and begin a “new normal” working, living, exercising and entertaining out of home. Now that we have just entered 2021, we asked around our industry friends to reflect back on the year and … Continue reading “Year in Review: Dan Fisher of Bottle Rocket Media”
The acclaimed, gripping Mexican border thriller from debut Mexican filmmaker Fernanda Valadez, Identifying Features, will open January 22 with Chicago’s Gene Siskel Film Center Virtual Cinema. Middle-aged Magdalena (Mercedes Hernandez) has lost contact with her son after he took off with a friend from their town of Guanajuato to cross the border into the U.S., … Continue reading “Gotham winner ‘Identifying Features’ comes to Siskel”
Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot and the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) today announced $2.5 million in funding opportunities for Chicago artists and arts organizations. A new “Artist Response Program,” opening January 11, will provide $750,000 to support art that respond to the recent health, economic and humanitarian crises. The program includes … Continue reading “City announces $2.5 million arts fund”
“Now is a good time to retire. After 37 years at Cutters and 47 in the industry, I’m ready to move forward and retire here at year end.” That’s the rare email message our friends at Cutters Studios received in late 2020 from Senior Partner/Editor Chris Claeys. The heartfelt message hit many emotional notes for … Continue reading “Cutters Chris Claeys retires from editing”
Acclaimed actor Harry Lennix (The Matrix, Man of Steel) may have been born in Chicago, but soon the 56-year-old star, star of television’s hit series Blacklist will be from Mars – as Martian Manhunter in HBO Max’s upcoming Zack Snyder’s Justice League. The veteran stage and screen actor confirmed that his appearance will reveal that … Continue reading “Harry Lennix confirms he’s Martian Manhunter”
