Take advantage of the last of the big, important events in November, especially during the two weekends prior to Thanksgiving, including several film festivals, a tour of Cinespace studios and a night with The HistoryMarkers. Then we swing into holiday mode.
The first cheery Christmas party invitation from LimeGreen may signal a month of holiday parties, to celebrate the season and also a year that many say was better than expected. Send along your party information and add your forthcoming events to our Calendar page.
NOV. 4-20: 23rd POLISH FILM FESTIVAL IN AMERICA is the world’s most extensive annual programming promoting Polish cinema of more than 70 features, docs and shorts and dozens of Polish filmmakers around the world. At the Muvico 18 in Rosemont.
NOV. 11: CHICAGO FILM ARCHIVES NIGHT celebrates Chicago’s rich film history as the spotlight illuminates the life of Ruth Page, Chicago’s iconic dance figure; onscreen commentary by Haskell Wexler, Andrew Davis and other Midwest directors. WBEZ’s Eight Forty Eight host, Alison Cuddy and dancers Delores Lipinski and Patricia Klekovic discuss the dance culture that supported 20th century dance ala prima ballerina Ruth Page.
At a private home in River Forest, 5-8 p.m. Tickets $100, $150 per couple. Click here for more information or call 312/243-1808.
NOV. 11-13: TRIBECA FILM FESTIVAL sponsored by American Express, presents seven outstanding indie films — including “The Last Rites of Joe May,” starring Dennis Farina, and special Q&A with the filmmakers. At the Landmark Century, 2828 N. Broadway. Tickets $12 for opening night, $8 for all other screenings. Buy tickets here.
NOV. 12: A TOUR OF CINESPACE STUDIOS is an opportunity for Women in Film
members and guests to see the space and especially the amazing soundstage where the Starz hit “Boss” will be filmed for a second season. At 2558 W. 18th St.; 8 p.m. Members free, guests $10.
NOV. 12: “HATS OFF TO CHARACTERS!” is the theme of non-profit CNGM’s
annual fund-raiser to help support the Palatine-based projects of members who make and distribute character-driven films. Guests are invited to wear a distinctive hat or come as a favorite character. Three new projects will be pitched and guests can donate to one or more of their choice.
At the Cutting Hall Performance Center, 150 E$. Wood St., Palatine, starting at 7 p.m. Tickets, $20 in advance, $30 at the door. Includes appetizers and drinks.
NOV. 14-DEC. 19: FACETS FILM SCHOOL, showscases weekly films: Alain Resnais: Cartographer of the Imagination; Comparing Traditional Masculinity in the Films of Anthony and Michael Mann; The Incredible Versatility of Irene Dunne; Boris Karloff: The Gentleman Monster; He Got Game: The Films of Denzel Washington. At Facets, 1517 W. Fullerton.
NOV. 17: THE MOVIE SPECIAL is the series finale of Chicago Live, C the Tribune series held at the Chicago Theatre and hosted by columnist Rick Kogan. The finale featurew Svengoolie, Tribune film critic Michael Phillips and a blockbuster lineup of Chicago filmmakers and actors. Musical guests are Kids These Days. Tickets and more info.
NOV. 17: AICP SHOW/CHICAGO is notable for attracting 1,200 adfolk for the annual showcasing of the winning reel of the best commercials produced by AICP members. At the Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington, at 7:30 p.m. Click here for tickets.
NOV. 18: 2nd ANNUAL CHICAGO FOOD FILM FESTIVAL is where guests get to taste the foods they see on the 20 films that will screen through Nov. 20 at Kendall College and Intelligentsia Roasting Works. The festival, a competitive event, opens with Chef Art Jackson of Pleasant House with “Farm to Film to Table” event.
NOV. 18: BLACK ENSEMBLE THEATRE GRAND OPENING starts with a gala opening celebration at 7 p.m., followed by “The Jackie Wilson Story” at 8 p.m., its new Cultural Center building, 4450 N. Clark St. Ticket price is $300.
The celebration continues Nov. 19 with a 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Open House and Nov. 29 with lunch specials at nearby restaurants and a matinee performance.
NOV. 19: “AN EVENING WITH VALERIE SIMPSON,” presented by The HistoryMakers, in honor of Nick Ashford, interviewed by PBS’ Gwen Ifill. At Thorne Auditorium, 375 E. Chicago, valet parking. RSVP by Nov 4 to 312/674-1900 or info@thehistorymakers.com.
NOV. 25: “THE LAST RITES OF JOE MAY,” produced by Steppenwolf Films and starring Dennis Farina, the dark story of an aging, small time hoodlum who can’t get back in the game, spends a week at the Gene Siskel Film Center.
Know of an event of interest? Send the notice to Ruth@Reelchicago.com.
