30th CUFF promises week of cinematic weirdness

The 30th edition of the Chicago Underground Film Festival (CUFF) is set to kick off on September 13, 2023, promising an exciting lineup of underground cinema and late-night entertainment. As one of the world’s longest-running underground film festivals, CUFF has become known for its unique blend of experimental films, filmmaker appearances, and vibrant afterparties.

And just plain weird.

The festival will run from September 13 to 17, 2023, with its Opening Night taking place at the Gene Siskel Film Center in the Chicago Loop. Subsequent screenings will be held at the Harper Theater in Hyde Park.

CUFF has curated a series of late-night events to complement its film screenings:

Wednesday, September 13 Another VU at CUFF Opening Party

  • Venue: Bottom Lounge, 1375 W. Lake St., Chicago
  • Doors: 9 pm; Music: 10 pm
  • Admission: $10
  • Kick-off opening night with the music of Velvet Underground tribute band, Another VU.

Thursday, September 14 Experimental Filmmaker Karaoke

  • Venue: Miyagi Records, 307 E. Garfield Blvd., Chicago
  • 9 pm-1 am; 21+ event with required RSVP
  • A unique blend of traditional karaoke and experimental filmmaking.

Friday, September 15 A Celebration of Chicago Footwork and Experimental Film

  • Venue: The Promontory, 5311 S. Lake Park Ave. West, Chicago
  • Doors: 9 pm; Music and Films: 10 pm-1 am; 18+ event
  • An audio-visual experience featuring grooves by DJ Spinn, Jana Rush, RP Boo, and films by Wills Glasspiegel.

Saturday, September 16 Clusterfuck

  • Venue: Kulture Museum, The Cermak Center, 629 W. Cermak Rd., Second Floor, Chicago
  • 9 pm-2 am
  • A celebration of art forms and artists outside of traditional norms and formats.

CUFF is renowned for championing underground cinema and video art, offering audiences a glimpse into some of the most original and groundbreaking films and video creations of today. In addition to screenings, the festival features panels and nightly after-parties.

The festival’s programming highlights include the opening film Hello Dankness by Soda Jerk and the closing film For Kicks by Sean P. Fahey. CUFF also includes several world premieres and noteworthy features, including music documentaries and alumni films.

As CUFF celebrates its 30th edition, it continues to be a platform for innovative and boundary-pushing cinema, providing a unique and engaging experience for film enthusiasts and creators alike.

For more information about the festival, including the full schedule and ticket details, please visit CUFF’s official website.

Stay tuned for a week of underground cinematic delights and late-night entertainment at CUFF30!

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