Writer-director Aaron Wertheimer is bringing his latest feature, Not If I See You First, to the big screen for its world premiere at the Music Box Theatre in Chicago on March 26, 2025.
“It seems fitting that it’ll premiere at an historic Chicago venue, considering the plot involves new friends planning to see the city’s famous sights – before running into a series of obstacles,” says Wertheimer. “Hopefully, the premiere will be obstacle-free.”
The absurd buddy comedy stars Kenny Zimlinghaus (in a dynamic dual role as both the easygoing Kenny and his hot-tempered twin brother, Mike), and Aaron Wertheimer (as Aaron, an affable Chicagoland resident who befriends Kenny). The cast also features Joey Wertheimer, Elizabeth Stam, and Leslie Crum.
In the film, Kenny meets Aaron, who convinces him to extend his business trip a few days to do some local sightseeing. But when Kenny’s car explodes and Aaron gets selective amnesia, their fledgling friendship threatens to lose its way.
Produced by Andre Fonseca under his production company, Lucid Dreams, the film also boasts cinematography by Pouya Shahbazi, and was executive produced by Jordan Bass, Yoel Goldberg, and Joshua Rosen. The film was shot primarily in Skokie and Evanston, bringing a distinct local charm to the story.
“This movie is a love letter to friendship, Chicago, therapy, memory loss, and the bonds formed in between,” Fonseca says. “We can’t wait to share it with the world.”
The film includes a cameo from filmmaker Michael Glover Smith, whose short film Handle With Care, starring Mickey O’Sullivan and Alyssa Thordarson, produced by Thordarson and John Otterbacher, and also shot by Shahbazi, will precede the premiere. Wertheimer previously collaborated with Smith as a producer on his 2022 family dramedy Relative, which features Elizabeth Stam in a breakout role.
Following the screening, audiences can enjoy a Q&A with members of the cast and crew, moderated by Patrick McDonald. Additionally, official Not If I See You First merchandise, including magnets and sweatbands, will be available for purchase in the Music Box lounge.
Star Kenny Zimlinghaus sums up the excitement: “Getting to watch a movie for the first time on the big screen is always quite a moment. I can’t wait!”
Tickets are $15. To purchase VISIT HERE.
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