| 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.
Editor’s Note: They are leaders. They are inspirational. They are mentors. They are visionaries. They are, quite frankly, badasses. They are our 2022 REEL WOMEN. During Women’s History Month, you will be able to meet these incredible personalities in Advertising, Entertainment, Media and Production. Women like Jen Shelley are making “Herstory.” As Director of Communications for Whitehouse Post, Jen Shelley oversees … Continue reading “REEL WOMEN: Jen Shelley, Director of Communications Whitehouse Post”
Editor’s Note: They are leaders. They are inspirational. They are mentors. They are visionaries. They are, quite frankly, badasses. They are our 2022 REEL WOMEN. During Women’s History Month, you will be able to meet these incredible personalities in Advertising, Entertainment, Media and Production. Women like Angie Gaffney are making “Herstory.” Strong, confident, capable, Angie Gaffney is a true renaissance woman … Continue reading “Reel Women: Angie Gaffney, Executive Director at IFA Chicago, film producer”
Editor’s Note: They are leaders. They are inspirational. They are mentors. They are visionaries. They are, quite frankly, badasses. They are our 2022 REEL WOMEN. During Women’s History Month, you will be able to meet these incredible personalities in Advertising, Entertainment, Media and Production. Women like Neha Datt Schultz are making “Herstory.” Neha Datt Schultz joined Picture North in 2014 as … Continue reading “Reel Women: Neha Datt Schultz EP/Head of Development Picture North”
Editor’s Note: They are leaders. They are inspirational. They are mentors. They are visionaries. They are, quite frankly, badasses. They are our 2022 REEL WOMEN. During Women’s History Month, you will be able to meet these incredible personalities in Advertising, Entertainment, Media and Production. Women like Erica Duffy are making “Herstory.” Erica Duffy is the sole owner of Camera Ambassador, the … Continue reading “Reel Women: Erica Duffy sole owner of Camera Ambassador”
Editor’s Note: They are leaders. They are inspirational. They are mentors. They are visionaries. They are, quite frankly, badasses. They are our 2022 REEL WOMEN. During Women’s History Month, you will be able to meet these incredible personalities in Advertising, Entertainment, Media and Production. Women like Jennifer Rudnicke are making “Herstory.” Jennifer Rudnicke started her casting career as the assistant to … Continue reading “Reel Women: Casting Director, Jennifer Rudnicke Paskal Rudnicke Casting”
Editor’s Note: They are leaders. They are inspirational. They are mentors. They are visionaries. They are, quite frankly, badasses. They are our 2022 REEL WOMEN. During Women’s History Month, you will be able to meet these incredible personalities in Advertising, Entertainment, Media and Production. Women like Justyna Grabowski are making “Herstory.” Justyna Grabowski is the Executive Director of Operations at CineCity … Continue reading “Reel Women: Justyna Grabowski Exec Director of Operations at CineCity”
Editor’s Note: They are leaders. They are inspirational. They are mentors. They are visionaries. They are, quite frankly, badasses. They are our 2022 REEL WOMEN. During Women’s History Month, you will be able to meet these incredible personalities in Advertising, Entertainment, Media and Production. Women like Rebecca Considine are making “Herstory.” Alongside her partner Eric Lazar, … Continue reading “REEL WOMEN: Rebecca Considine of SpeedPro Chicago Loop”
Creative Cypher Founder and Executive Producer Troy Pryor relaunches the International Screenwriters Association (ISA) Chicago chapter and kicks off Women’s History Month with an all women panel ‘International Women In Screenwriting’. Powered by Cypher Latino, a new extension of Creative Cypher, the panel will consist of Latina panelists Director and writer Lauryn Lugo and moderator … Continue reading “Troy Pryor relaunches ISA Chicago with International Women in Screenwriting”
In recognition of Women’s History Month, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) is kicking off ‘HERstory’ – an initiative to celebrate and elevate Illinois and Illinois women-owned businesses. As part of this, DCEO is spotlighting women-owned businesses, resources, and hosting events with women trailblazers designed to provide tools and guidance for women in business to … Continue reading “DCEO celebrates Women’s History Month with ‘HERstory’ initiative”
The 3% Movement are believers in planning ahead for things that matter. But this year – for so many reasons – it is hard to think at all, yet alone think ahead. They have assembled an easy, free way to bring your team together throughout the month of March for Women’s History Month. The 3% Women’s History Month Video … Continue reading “Doing something is better than doing nothing for Women’s History Month”
Editor’s Note: They are leaders. They are inspirational. They are mentors. They are visionaries. They are, quite frankly, badasses. They are our 2022 REEL WOMEN. During Women’s History Month, you will be able to meet these incredible personalities in Advertising, Entertainment, Media and Production. Get ready, because women like Larissa Berringer are making “Herstory.” When Larissa … Continue reading “REEL WOMEN: ATKPLN’s Larissa Berringer”
“Don’t be that guy,” says Erik Runge of WGN. “That’s so dangerous. I don’t understand that at all. It just really aggravates me. It’s just stupid. It drives me nuts.” We’ve all seen it, and not only does it drive us crazy, it’s also incredibly dangerous! We’ve all driven behind someone driving with snow covered … Continue reading “WGN reporter goes on rant chasing down drivers in snow-covered cars”
FACETS Chicago International Children’s Film Festival announces that submissions are now open for CICFF39. CICFF is the first Academy-qualifying children’s film festival in the world. The festival presents the best, most innovative international films for kids and teens, seeking out films that both entertain audiences and challenge them to widen their perspectives. CICFF invites film submissions … Continue reading “FACETS announces submissions are now open for CICFF39”
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. 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’”
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”
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”
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 R. 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 … Continue reading “Reel Women: Sheila R. 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.
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.
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.
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 38th Chicago Latino Film Festival announced today the winners and runners-up for its Audience Choice Awards. The slate of 50 features and 36 shorts from Latin America, Spain, Portugal and the United States, included an array of premieres, stories of underrepresented communities, and an increase in LGBTQIA+ films. Even though the festival is a non-competitive … Continue reading “Two feature debuts take top honors at Chicago Latino Film Festival”
Oops. As more and more brands are beginning to react to last week’s Scotus leak, which clearly shows the highest court in the land leaning toward ending Roe v. Wade one year before its 50th anniversary, Zeno Group, a part of Edelman Holdings, has been caught advising its clients to avoid taking a stand on … Continue reading “Edelman sister agency advises clients to avoid statements on Roe v. Wade”
As the devastation unfolds in Ukraine, political activist and author Claudia Clark delivers a potent reminder of the importance of alliances between countries and world leaders in her extensively researched, compelling new book, Dear Barack: The Extraordinary Partnership of Barack Obama and Angela Merkel. Informative, entertaining and timely—with a chapter devoted specifically to Russia and Vladimir … Continue reading “The Extraordinary Partnership of Barack Obama and Angela Merkel”
Bill Murray, who is considered by his fans to be the coolest human alive, has come forward to address the complaint that had been filed against him last week for “inappropriate behavior” on the set of Being Mortal. Murray’s chill, unpredictable personality apparently crossed over the boundaries of someone’s comfort space causing the Searchlight film, helmed … Continue reading “A reflection on Bill Murray’s response to his inappropriate behavior”
Street Heroines, directed by Valiant Pictures’ Alexandra Henry, will return to screen April 30th as an official selection at the annual Chicago Latino Film Festival. The festival spans April 21 thru May 1. Guests can attend the event to experience the magic in person or virtually. Passes include access to festival films, panels, and parties. … Continue reading “Street Heroines to screen as official selection at Chicago Latino Film Festival”
Jane Lynch accepted a new challenge by jumping into the directors chair and joining a growing list of talented actresses who appear in front of, and behind the camera. What better place to hone her skills than her hometown Chicago where she not only directed the spots for the new Illinois Tourism campaign for STORY … Continue reading “INTERVIEW: Chicago’s own Jane Lynch at home in the directors chair”
As the countdown for the 38th Chicago Latino Film Festival, presented by Corona Extra, begins, organizers unveiled the list of films that will receive their World, North American, U.S. and Midwest Premieres at the Festival, led by the locally produced Bye Bye Chicago. The Festival this year will feature two World Premieres, five North American … Continue reading “Bye Bye Chicago world premiere at 38th Chicago Latino Film Festival”
The Illinois General Assembly concluded their spring session early Saturday morning with great news for our Illinois film production industry. The Illinois Production+ and workforce development fund legislation affirmatively passed both the House and Senate. Effective July 1, 2022 the Illinois Film Production Tax Credit program will officially be expanded, implementing the new provisions provided in the Illinois Production+ … Continue reading “Illinois Film Production Tax Credit expansion passes General Assembly”
The One Chicago franchise celebrated their much anticipated, annual One Chicago Day last week, where traditionally, cast members treat their fans to exclusive interviews, discuss their favorite scenes, and answers questions from the fans. If you’re a fan of NBC’s Chicago Fire, Chicago Med, and Chicago P.D. and you missed this once a year event, we’ve got you covered. … Continue reading “Special coverage of One Chicago Day 2022”
Negin Farsad is an Iranian-American Muslim comedian bringing her newly minted hour to Chicago! She is no stranger to the city as she is a regular panelist on the beloved NPR/WBEZ show Wait Wait Don’t Tell Me. Farsad presents an evening of standup-comedy-meets-TEDTalk-meets-ethnic-lady. She cycles through her life as an Iranian-American Muslim, married to a black … Continue reading “Comedian Negin Farsad brings her newly minted hour to Chicago”
Cars.com the car-shopping marketplace headquartered in Chicago, has revealed its 2022 “Top Picks” for electric vehicles. In conjunction with the company’s new EV Buying Guide, Cars.com experts examined the price, range, comfort and features of 30-plus EV models on sale in the first quarter of 2022 to determine the top picks for value, families, luxury and commuters. … Continue reading “Cars.com releases its 2022 ‘Top Picks’ for electric vehicles”
The PrideArts Spring Film Fest runs from March 14 to May 1, with 32 international LGBT short films grouped into four programs, followed by three feature-length documentaries. See how filmmakers around the world are enriching lives. Week 3’s films explore prejudice and discrimination against people with queer identities, among other themes. One film considers the challenges of … Continue reading “PrideArts Spring Film Fest Week 3 explores prejudice and discrimination”
Before the “Slap Heard ‘Round the World,” there was actually an award show going on. And it was going pretty great. Produced by Will Packer, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences handed out the gold statuettes known as Oscar for the 94th time. Reel 360 was on the scene as 16.62 million viewers witnessed what … Continue reading “Full Oscar coverage with exclusive interviews”
The Midwest Film Festival (MFF) presents its second entry of their 2022 season. On Tuesday, April 5, at 7 pm, MFF will host an hour-long networking soiree before featuring the Midwest premiere of Michael Glover Smith’s feature-length film: Relative at 8 pm at the Gene Siskel Film Center. This screening will be followed by a … Continue reading “Midwest Film Festival presents Relative a film by Michael Glover Smith”
The 38th Chicago Latino Film Festival announced two special screenings at Instituto Cervantes, 31 W. Ohio St.: Nicolás Postioglione’s feature debut Immersion on Sunday, April 24th and the U.S. Premiere of Javier Espada’s new documentary Buñuel, a Surrealist Filmmaker on Thursday, April 28th. Both events start at 6 p.m. with a reception preceding the screening … Continue reading “38th Chicago Latino Film Festival screens two films at Instituto Cervantes”
Banner expands roster and capabilities with additions to production and post production teams. The crew at Chicago-based digital content studio, Banner is growing with the additions of Luke Pollard a Senior Artist, Mo’Tastem Awad an award winning Filmmaker and Director of Photography, Chris Scudder an Editor, and Justine Burchall a Cinematographer and Editor. Luke Pollard … Continue reading “Banner expands their roster and capabilities with new hires”
NBC News announced some recent changes in correspondents. Maggie Vespa will join NBC News and MSNBC as a correspondent based in Chicago. NBC News correspondent Meagan Fitzgerald, who joined the network in 2020, will be moving from Chicago to become a correspondent based in London. David Verdi, Executive VP Of Global Newsgathering, announced the news in … Continue reading “NBC News announces changes in correspondents”
After Selection Sunday, the creative team at SCC, the Adage small agency of the year, created this 30-second video just in time to go live on SOLO ’s digital platforms by the time the Round of 64 began playing on March 17. The strategic approach behind the campaign was to create engagement by playing a … Continue reading “SOLO Cup predicts March Madness bracket results with FLIP CUP”
Calling all Midwest filmmakers! Apply by March 31st at 11:59 pm for the 2022 Community Builders Grant. The Community Builders Grant is the annual short-form film fund and production resources grant sponsored by Camera Ambassador. The mission is to help build bridges between Midwest filmmakers and the community while elevating their production by arming them … Continue reading “Camera Ambassador presents 2022 Community Builders Grant”
It’s a big goal for the girl’s team as multiple sources including NBC5 and Rahimi herself, announce that 39 year old Leila Rahimi has been promoted to the full-time position of lead sports anchor at NBC 5 Chicago. Rahimi will be the first female to hold the position as sports director/main sports anchor in Chicago … Continue reading “Leila Rahimi first female to take lead sports anchor position on NBC5”
The Patrick Lives On 5th Annual Film Showcase held at Resolution Digital Studios on March 12th was a great success! After two years of pandemic woes, it was a joy to socialize and celebrate!! In their first five years, Patrick Lives On has helped HUNDREDS of kids participate in the after school activity of their choice … Continue reading “Patrick Lives On 5th Annual Film Showcase at Resolution is a big success”
For the first time in cinema, iconic Masters Tournament caddie of 54 years, Carl Jackson, is opening up about his life – an extraordinary journey of triumph over obstacles interwoven through six decades of American civil, social, and political unrest. His stories and the stories of that time have been kept in his personal vault … Continue reading “Sheridan Road Productions acquires rights to the life story of Carl Jackson”
Continuing its ongoing efforts to help one of Earth’s most precious resource – water – Moen is launching a new awareness and conservation effort on World Water Day through their CSR Mission Moen. The campaign, created in partnership with creative agency Havas Chicago, showcases the kitchen and bath company’s commitment to save one trillion gallons of water … Continue reading “Moen commits to saving one trillion gallons of water by 2030”
The 38th Chicago Latino Film Festival, presented by Corona Extra, announced today its selections for their Opening Night and Centerpiece screenings at ChiTown Movies Drive-In, 2343 S. Throop St. The Festival opens Thursday, April 21st with Abner Benaim’s heartbreaking tale about Panama’s class and racial divides, Plaza Catedral. The Festival’s Centerpiece selection, Ángeles Cruz’s feature … Continue reading “Chicago Latino Film Festival Opening Night and Centerpiece screenings”
The 38th Chicago Latino Film Festival, presented by Corona Extra, announced its selections for their Closing and Late Night screenings at ChiTown Movies Drive-In, 2343 S. Throop St., Saturday, April 30th. The Festival closes with the Midwest premiere of Chilean director Francisca Alegría’s feature debut The Cow who Sang a Song into the Future starring … Continue reading “Chicago Latino Film Festival late night screenings and closing film”
This spring, Porchlight Music Theatre presents the winner of eight Tony Awards, including Best Musical, Spring Awakening, at The Ruth Page Center for the Arts. Set against the backdrop of a repressive and provincial late 19th-century Germany, and based on Frank Wedekind’s 1891 play that was immediately banned due to its subject matter, Spring Awakening tells the timeless story of youthful … Continue reading “Porchlight presents the landmark American musical Spring Awakening”
Local Union 1220 of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) has officially called for a Strike at Chicagoland’s PBS affiliate, Window to the World (WTTW) Communications, and Mayor Lori Lightfoot joined the picket lines to show her support of the union on Monday. Following nearly a year of difficult collective bargaining with the station’s … Continue reading “IBEW Local 1220 call for strike against WTTW Channel 11”
Foodies and music-lovers alike have been dancing in their kitchens to the new Kraft Singles single, Square It since it launched across streaming platforms a week ago. Now, the brand is excited to share the music video for the single. The music video was directed by Sammy Rawal and features dancer Honey Balenciaga cooking and dancing in the kitchen to the … Continue reading “Kraft Singles launches Square It music video for their singles single”
Reel Black Filmmakers, a program of the Community Film Workshop of Chicago, will conclude this year’s South Side Short Film Series on Wednesday, March 23rd from 7-8:30pm via Zoom with films about families. From the mother and daughter charting a successful business path to a father and daughter’s journey across the globe to find their … Continue reading “Reel Black Filmmakers’ final segment of South Side Short Film Series”
Chicago and LA based Production and Post company OddMachine has welcomed a new talent to its Directorial roster: New York based Director Marcus K. Jones. Jones brings a bevy of sharp and sophisticated fashion and beauty work. OddMachine, a full-service company specializes in unconventional solutions to creative challenges, celebrated their 13th anniversary last December. “We … Continue reading “OddMachine welcomes Marcus K. Jones to its directorial roster”
Grammy Award winner and billionaire formally known as Kanye West, now legally known as Ye, has been barred from performing at the upcoming Grammy Awards due to his concerning online behavior. A rep for the artist confirmed to the Blast that the artist’s team received a phone call Friday night informing him he had been … Continue reading “Ye barred from Grammy Awards due to his concerning online behavior”
One Chicago fans will have to be content with reruns as the shows take a break from new episodes for the next two weeks. NBC Universal has shared that new episodes for Chicago Med, Chicago Fire, and Chicago PD will air on Wednesday, April 6. Back in February Steve Kern, head of scheduling for NBC, … Continue reading “Chicago Fire, Med and P.D. take a break for two weeks. Here’s a recap”
Lynn Osmond has been appointed as the new President & CEO of Choose Chicago. Osmond, the first woman to helm the city’s tourism agency, was most recently the President & CEO at the Chicago Architecture Center. “Lynn Osmond’s thorough experience leading the Chicago Architecture Center will be a great asset to Choose Chicago—and we’re proud … Continue reading “Lynn Osmond tapped as first woman to helm Chicago’s tourism agency”
The Amazon sci-fi drama series Lightyears that filmed in Chicago last summer, with Sissy Spacek and J.K. Simmons has changed the title of the show to Night Sky. They are currently finishing up post production for an expected show launch date of May 20th. Amazon will drop all eight episodes at the same time. Night … Continue reading “Lightyears changes name to Night Sky and sets show launch date”
9Rooftops welcomes Jason Uzarraga as an Associate Creative Director bringing over 20 years of experience in content development, video, design, experiential marketing and social and digital media to the role. Based in the Chicago office, Uzarraga has already begun providing forward-thinking creative solutions to meet the strategic needs of several 9Rooftops clients. He will play … Continue reading “9Rooftops welcomes Jason Uzarraga as Associate Creative Director”
Desperate times call for desperate measures. The McDonald’s trade name is being taken over by a Russian fast food chain named Дядя Ваня pronounced Dyadya Vanya, and known in English as Uncle Vanya. The chain revealed a near-identical logo of McDonald’s, flipped on its side and turned into a B as in the initial of … Continue reading “Russian fast-food chain Uncle Vanya replaces McDonald’s and copies logo”
NBC Chicago’s one-hour special, The Lost Story of Emmett Till: The Universal Child, will air Saturday, March 19 at 6 p.m. The program is an extended version of NBC Chicago’s documentary that debuted exclusively on Roku, Apple TV and Amazon Fire in February. The broadcast special will include extended interviews and bonus scenes retelling the chilling … Continue reading “NBC Chicago to air The Lost Story of Emmett Till: The Universal Child”
American philanthropist and former WGN-TV (Channel 9) television journalist, who survived a kidnapping and murder attempt, Merri Dee passed away at age 85. Her death was confirmed Wednesday by a statement shared by WGN, “Chicago’s Very Own, Merri Dee, was a one-of-a-kind legend. From WGN staff announcer to hosting parade telecasts, telethons and even the … Continue reading “Merri Dee Chicago’s homegrown broadcasting legend has passed at 85”
Chicago continues to be a busy hub for filming features, tv and streaming content, documentaries, and commercials – to the dismay of some and the delight of others. Overall, residents learn to accept the negatives with the positives if they want to live in a city so iconic that it has become a major powerhouse … Continue reading “Here’s what’s filming on the streets of Chicago for the week of March 21”
Live action production company Strange Loop Studios has announced the official addition for commercial representation of director/writer Kiki Allgeier. The filmmaker brings naturalistic elegance and cinematic emotion to the lifestyle commercial scene. From beauty products to luxury automotive brands, her work transcends industry stereotypes and showcases a vision and style that resonates universally with brand … Continue reading “Strange Loop Studios signs commercial director Kiki Allgeier”
The Chicago Film Critics Association (CFCA), the Chicago-area print, online and broadcast critics group that celebrates the art of film and film criticism, announces today the first seven films selected for the 2022 Chicago Critics Film Festival. First titles include highly anticipated films like the Chicago premiere of Cooper Raiff’s CHA CHA REAL SMOOTH, starring Raiff and … Continue reading “Chicago Critics Film Festival announces first seven films selected for 2022”
Smash Virtual is opening a permanent, state-of-the-art virtual production stage in downtown Chicago, bringing the cutting-edge of filmmaking to the Midwest film industry. By merging large LED video walls, live camera tracking, and realtime 3D systems like Unreal Engine, virtual production offers an alternative to location shooting that is faster, easier, and safer–all while increasing … Continue reading “SMASH Virtual opens 19,000 sq. ft virtual production stage in south loop”
Chicago Humanities Festival will host two separate events at the Harris Theater for Music and Dance: the first with comedian Molly Shannon and the second with Queer Eye’s Jonathan Van Ness, on Wednesday, April 13th. At 6 PM on April 13th, Molly Shannon will sit down to talk about her memoir, Hello Molly! Shannon is best known for her … Continue reading “Chicago Humanities Festival hosts Molly Shannon and Jonathan Van Ness”
Chicago-based 1o8, the evolved performance marketing agency, attracts top creative talent Jen Bills in the new role of Executive Vice President / Executive Creative Director. Bills comes directly from O’Keefe Reinhard & Paul (OKRP) where she was Group Creative Director. 1o8 is a minority owned agency founded by Aalap Shah in 2018. Shah is mindfully building … Continue reading “1o8 adds top creative talent Jen Bills as EVP/ECD”
Valerie Aurilio joins Design B&B, a brand strategy and design agency, with 20 years of creative leadership partnering with some of the biggest names in CPG and corporate identity. Val brings experiences from a rich and varied list of categories from Beauty and Baby Care to Pharma, Finance, and Food. Val has revitalized iconic brands like Huggies and … Continue reading “Valerie Aurilio joins Design B&B as managing partner”
Publicis Italy, Publicis Mexico, Leo Burnett Chicago, Digitas NY celebrate the power of the pause in new campaign, with post from Whitehouse Chicago, Framestore Chicago, Another Country. The POWERADE brand is celebrating the power of the pause—prioritizing wellbeing over winning—with a new global communications platform launching this week. A TV commercial featuring USA Olympic gymnast … Continue reading “POWERADE prioritizes wellbeing over winning in new campaign”
Labelium Play, the high-engagement digital marketing arm of global e-commerce performance agency Labelium, is launching NXTLVL, a game-changing division exclusively dedicated to integrating brands into digital gaming. The new unit is based in Chicago and led by Clayton McLaughlin, Managing Director of Labelium Play. NXTLVL’s tagline is “Navigation for the Wide World of Gaming,” and the new … Continue reading “Labelium launches NXTLVL dedicated to integrating brands into gaming”
Calling all artists! The Chicago transit system is a living, interactive gallery of unique works of art and architectural design elements that reflect the cultural influences of the men and women who have lived and worked in the communities we’ve served for more than a century. Over the last several years, the city’s collection of public art has … Continue reading “Calling all artists: CTA seeks artists to create new, original public artwork”
Independent, full-service agency Two by Four is continuing to assemble a powerhouse leadership team in their Chicago office. The agency announced today that Korie Brown has been named to the new position of Group Media Director, reporting to Jessica Romaniuk who was named President of the Chicago office in October. The new position is indicative of Two … Continue reading “Two by Four names Korie Brown to position of Group Media Director “
In celebration of Halfway to Halloween, the halfway point to all things scary, FACETS has selected five films for audiences to satisfy their craving for spooky cinema on the big screen. Screening at FACETS (1517 W Fullerton Ave) April 28-May 1, 2022, Halfway to Halloween features Rusty Cundieff’s Tales from the Hood (April 28), a double feature of David Cronenberg’s Videodrome and Kiyoshi Kurosawa’s Pulse (April 29), … Continue reading “FACETS celebrates Halfway to Halloween with a weekend of horror flicks”
Retired Chicago broadcaster and Southern Illinois University alum Bob Ramsey passed away suddenly at age 65 on Tuesday at Eisenhower Medical Center in Rancho Mirage, California at age 65. According to friends, Ramsey succumbed to complications while awaiting a liver transplant, Robert Feder reported. After graduating from Southern Illinois University in 1979, Ramsey started his … Continue reading “Chicago broadcaster Bob Ramsey passed away suddenly at age 65”
As the nation debates when America’s workforce should return to their physical offices, a surprising trend has emerged – people’s dread about pooping in their office bathrooms! In response, MiraLAX’s new ‘Workstipation Reform’ campaign wants to reduce the stress of transitioning back to the office bathroom, after we’ve gotten used to the comfort of our at-home lavatories. … Continue reading “MiraLAX’s Workstipation Reform fights stress in office bathrooms”
What do HBO, Amazon, Hulu, Apple TV, Netflix, NBC/Uni, Sony, Disney, AMC Studios, Showtime, STARZ all have in common? They’ve all moved into town, setup shop, and made themselves a home in Chicago to shoot a tv series. I’ve lived through the ebb and flow of the Chicago film industry since the mid 80s. This … Continue reading “What new series are setting up in Chicago and what’s leaving”
“There’s a side of you that has this arrogance, and selfishness, and narcissism that is just disgraceful,” Cook County Judge James Linn said in his closing remarks to Jussie Smollett. “You’re not a victim of a racial hate crime, you’re not a victim of a homophobic hate crime. You’re just a charlatan pretending to be … Continue reading “Jussie Smollett: arrogance, selfishness and narcissism that is just disgraceful”
The National Bobblehead Hall of Fame and Museum unveiled a limited-edition official bobblehead to honor longtime Chicago Sports Radio Broadcaster Les Grobstein, who passed away on January 16, 2022 at the age of 69. The bobblehead was released on March 11, 2022, which would have been Grobstein’s 70th birthday. In addition, Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot issued a proclamation … Continue reading “Les Grobstein bobblehead unveiled at National Bobblehead Hall of Fame”
OKRP is expanding its strategy department with the addition of agency veteran Kevin Lilly who is joining the agency in the new role as Head of Strategy. He will report to Nate Swift, Chief Strategy Officer at the agency. Lilly was most recently EVP, Strategy Director at Leo Burnett, where he spent the past 10 … Continue reading “Kevin Lilly joins ORKP as Head of Strategy”
Chicago is full of creative and passionate people. On JAY’S CHICAGO, Jay Shefsky introduces us to some fascinating people who live and work in Chicago. Returning for a fifth season on Thursday, March 24 at 8:30 pm on all WTTW platforms, JAY’S CHICAGO shines a spotlight on ordinary people who do extraordinary things – from … Continue reading “Jay’s Chicago returns for a fifth season on WTTW”
STARZ has announced that Power Book IV: Force has been renewed for a second season. The third spinoff in the Power franchise debuted February 6 as the most-watched premiere ever in STARZ history with 3.3M multiplatform views in the U.S. alone. Along with the announcement of the renewal, STARZ also shared that the series creator … Continue reading “Power Book IV: Force has been renewed for a second season”
Continuing its growth, one-stop cross-media production company Sarofsky has added Managing Director duties for longstanding Executive Producer Steven Anderson. As announced by company Principal and Executive Creative Director Erin Sarofsky, the company is also adding Designer/ Animators Tyler Scheitlin and Mollie Davis, Junior Designer/ Animator Lirio Ramirez, and Production Coordinator Annie Lynch to its full-time staff. According … Continue reading “Sarofsky promotes Anderson, adds design, animation and production staff”
Leo Burnett Chicago has appointed Ashley Geisheker to Head of Production. In this role, Geisheker will lead all aspects of the creative agency’s production capabilities, with a focus on growing a pipeline of multi-faceted makers and pushing the boundaries outside of traditional creative production; underscoring Leo Burnett’s reputation of delivering world-class creative solutions that help … Continue reading “Leo Burnett names Ashley Geisheker to EVP, Head of Production”
Editor’s Note: The Reel Black List is our annual spotlight of brothers and sisters in the worlds of advertising, film, TV, music, radio and media who are making a difference through their contributions and creativity on a daily basis. Today we celebrate Shirlene Small. Shirlene Small is Managing Partner of EBS and leads its Small Business Services Practice … Continue reading “RBL celebrates: Shirlene Small, Managing Partner of EBS”
38th Chicago Latino Film Festival (CLFF) April 21 – May 1, announces the first wave of titles from close to 100 feature and short length films from Latin America, Spain, Portugal and the United States confirmed for the event. This first round of titles includes two films fresh out of the Sundance Film Festival: Eva … Continue reading “38th Chicago Latino Film Festival announces first wave of titles”
Showtime and The Ritz-Carlton, announced a first-of-its-kind collaboration, reimagining the iconic concept of presidential suites in celebration of the new Showtime anthology drama series THE FIRST LADY. Beginning in April, select Ritz-Carlton properties will feature presidential suites reimagined as The First Lady Suites, offering members of Marriott’s award-winning travel program, Marriott Bonvoy, as well as the … Continue reading “Showtime and Ritz Carlton transform Presidential suites to First Lady suites”
Have you ever met a transgender kid? That’s the question The GenderCool Project asks in a national campaign by Swissa Creative. The high-energy 30 second spot features 11 transgender and non-binary kids ages 13 through 17 playing the team sports they love while talking about how participating in sports makes them feel. Known as the GenderCool “Champions”, … Continue reading “GenderCool campaign spotlights transgender kids finding joy in sports”
This message was originally sent via email from CEO Chris Kempczinski to McDonald’s employees and franchisees. The conflict in Ukraine and the humanitarian crisis in Europe has caused unspeakable suffering to innocent people. As a System, we join the world in condemning aggression and violence and praying for peace. McDonald’s will continue to pay full … Continue reading “McDonald’s to temporarily close restaurants & pause operations in Russia”
Blue Chip has added to its senior-level talent base with two key hires. Valerie Williams-Sanchez, Ph.D., a veteran marketer and educator, has joined as Vice President, Cultural Intelligence and Relevance. And Ann Yun, a longtime creative leader at such stalwart agencies as FCB and Wunderman Thompson, has joined the agency as Group Creative Director. Valerie … Continue reading “Blue Chip adds key hires Valerie Williams-Sanchez and Ann Yun”
The news is official, shows like Chicago Fire, Chicago Med, Chicago PD, Saturday Night Live, and The Voice will be moving to Peacock exclusively in the fall as the streaming giants are once again shuffling their content. NBC Universal has terminated its agreement to license shows to Walt Disney controlled Hulu and intends to move … Continue reading “Chicago Fire, Med and PD will move from Hulu to Peacock”
The Funnel Creative, a full-service media-content production company is now represented by Sonia Blum of Sonia Reps in the Midwest. Comprised of a diverse team of creatives, The Funnel Creative was founded last year to empower and uplift Black directors, creatives and content creators. Collectively, the three co-founders and executive producers, Adiclere Evans, Cisco Newman … Continue reading “The Funnel Collective Taps Sonia Reps for Midwest Representation”
Warning: Spoiler alert! This article contains spoilers for Chicago Fire episode S10 E14, ‘An Officer With Grit’ which aired Mar 2, 2022. After the events transpired on Chicago Fire episode 14, An Officer with Grit,when Lieutenant Pelham (Brett Dalton) admitted to Stella Kidd (Miranda Rae Mayo) that he had made the decision to transfer to … Continue reading “Chicago Fire is about to see some new cast members in Season 10”
Let’s talk trash. Face it, trash bags are boring. They are made to hold our garbage, not our attention. In fact, we usually hide them — in a can, under the sink. But what if that perception changed? What if people saw their trash bag as an affordable indulgence that is as unique as they are? … Continue reading “Glad and FCB launch a trash bag for those living the extra life”
Editor’s Note: The Reel Black List is our annual spotlight of brothers and sisters in the worlds of advertising, film, TV, music, radio and media who are making a difference through their contributions and creativity on a daily basis. Today we celebrate Doreena Towner. Doreena Towner is the founder and Chief Operations Partner of EBS and leads its … Continue reading “RBL celebrates: Doreena Towner, Chief Operations Partner of EBS”
Asian Pop-Up Cinema: Season 14 will present 28 films in downtown Chicago and the north suburbs, with select films available for online streaming. The joint virtual and in-person festival opens March 13 and runs through April 10. The diverse lineup celebrates the best of Asian cinema from South Korea, Japan, Hong Kong, the Philippines and … Continue reading “Asian Pop-Up Cinema announces full line up for season 14”
Connatix, a leading video technology company for publishers and advertisers, announced the hiring of Mike Renfro as Head of the Midwest Region. Renfro is tasked with establishing a new office in Chicago for Connatix, servicing the company’s existing and new agency and client partnerships. A strategic marketing, sales, and ad tech professional, Renfro joins Connatix … Continue reading “Connatix opens Chicago office and hires digital advertising veteran”
A boy, a tuba, and a quixotic quest to woo the girl of his dreams make this heartwarming short film. Mariachi Boy was directed by Michael Gabriele and produced by Daily Planet. “As a director, I want to tap into real emotions, whether joy, sadness or excitement, and tell stories that draw people in because they … Continue reading “Daily Planet’s Michael Gabriele proves love conquers all in Mariachi Boy”
Chicagoland native, Emmy-winning writer, Golden Globe-nominated actor, comedian, director, producer, and Second City alum Bob Odenkirk returned to Chicago to promote his book at an event at the Music Box Theatre. Odenkirk was joined by Tim Meadows, actor/comedian and Second City alum, who you might also recognize from his appearance in the Chicago set of … Continue reading “Bob Odenkirk opens up about life, death, and reinventing himself”
50 Cent threatens to move the Power universe away from its home on STARZ, after the business mogul recently blasted his frustrations on Instagram. As we reported earlier on Reel Chicago, the newest spinoff, Power Book IV: Force debuted on February 6th to record high views for STARZ. They tallied a record 3.3 million views … Continue reading
