The Midwest Film Festival (MFF,) a beacon for local filmmakers, welcomes a new Director of Operations, NK Gutiérrez for the 2024 season.
Gutiérrez was publicly announced in her new role at November’s 2023 Best of the Midwest Awards where she co-hosted the event with MFF Executive Director, Erica Duffy. While speaking to those in attendance an emphasis was made on the importance of being present and embracing the messiness and wonderment of the creative process.
All in attendance felt the importance of the moment as the festival, a staple since 2005, continues to grow, evolve and find success in its current iteration showcasing the talents of regional filmmakers.
Gutiérrez herself brings a strong background in multiple facets of the entertainment industry. As an actor and onscreen presence, her multiple credits include the likes of Showtime’s The Chi, NBC’s Chicago Fire and her 4th run of the hit show, La Gringa, at the 2022 Puerto Rican International Theater Festival in San Juan. Her short film, The Last New Year, which she wrote, produced and starred in, was critically lauded leading to her production company – All Things NK Productions – to currently work on turning TLNY into an episodic series. Gutiérrez’ first feature length documentary, How do You Grind, explores the various cultural celebrations of coffee.
Additionally she has served as an Intimacy Coordinator on film & TV sets as well as teaching mindful employee care practices in the corporate and nonprofit space. Gutiérrez serves as the co-chair of the Black Harvest Film Festival, Head of Programming for the XL Festival and Lead of the Film Club at Soho House Chicago.
With such an outstanding background, Gutiérrez has taken the reins as MFF’s first event of the year hits on January 29th at the Gene Siskel Film Center in downtown Chicago. The festival continues looking forward to all she brings to the table in the new year, as the festival’s day to day operations reflect the spirit of their new addition. Already, all monthly screenings will feature a Community Spotlight segment, highlighting the work and influence of local industry leaders.
MFF will be hosting quarterly Workforce Workshops to platform essential resources for the filmmaking community. And more exciting news is in store for MFF members, stakeholders and admirers that will be announced in the coming months regarding their offerings.
Reflecting on the bright direction of MFF and Gutiérrez’ addition, Duffy states: “I’m thrilled about the next stage of growth that the Midwest Film Festival is ushering in. The addition of NK Gutiérrez as our operations director is a significant milestone in our journey. Her passion, vision, and commitment to building community are inspiring. We’re excited about the future and grateful for the support of our community.”
Additional information on the Midwest Film Festival can be found at midwestfilm.com.
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