We are thrilled to announce the return of the Midwest Film Festival for its 18th season in 2024.
Get ready for a year-round lineup of exciting events and programming celebrating and supporting the Midwest Filmmaker.
Our cornerstone events take place on the last Monday of select months at The Gene Siskel Film Center in Chicago, IL. Immerse yourself in an unforgettable experience featuring a networking reception, community spotlight, screening of thought-provoking films, engaging filmmaker Q&A sessions, and an after-party. This year, we’ll offer three feature films, each offering a unique perspective, including a documentary. And don't miss our spectacular short film theme nights, featuring Impact Night, Global Kaleidoscope Night, Analog Night, Emerging Filmmakers Night, and Advertising Community Night. Submit your film via Film Freeway to be considered for official selection.
This year, we are expanding our horizons by bringing the Midwest Roadshow to Wisconsin and Kansas, spreading the magic of film beyond our hometown. We will also offer summer library community pop-ups, member-only networking events, and The Annual Best of The Midwest Awards.
As we strive to go beyond the screen, we are thrilled to offer quarterly workforce development workshops and a brand-new podcast called Reel Wisdom. Unleash your potential and gain valuable insights as we dive into the world of filmmaking.
With expanded membership benefits, this year's festival is bigger and better than ever. Join us today and become an integral part of our vibrant community. Let's celebrate the art of cinema together!
2024 Season Calendar:
Monday, January 29, 2024
Monday, February 26, 2024
Monday, March 25, 2024
Monday, April 29, 2024
TBD April - Midwest Road Show
Monday, June 24, 2024
Monday, July 29, 2024
Monday, August 26, 2024
Monday, September 30, 2024
TBD October - Midwest Road Show
TBD November - The Best of The Midwest Awards
Shorts program theme highlights of 2024:
Impact Night: Movies with Mission, Stories that Matter
Join us for a captivating evening as we showcase impactful movies with a purpose. Impact Night features films that address important social issues and tell inspiring stories. Prepare to be moved and motivated to make a difference through the powerful medium of cinema.
Global Kaleidoscope Night: Exploring Cultural Diversity Through Film
Embark on a cinematic journey around the world with Global Kaleidoscope. This event celebrates the richness of diverse cultures and explores different cultural roots through a thoughtfully curated selection of films. Immerse yourself in captivating stories from various corners of the globe and gain a deeper appreciation for the tapestry of humanity's cultural heritage.
Analog Night: Journeying into the Nostalgia of Analog Cinema
Experience the revival of classic cinema mediums in the Midwest filmmaking community at Analog Night. This special evening celebrates and highlights the artistry of analog film and the passion of analog film enthusiasts. Join us to celebrate the beauty and challenges of (partially or entirely) analog filmmaking. [Note: Digital Projection]
Emerging Filmmakers Night: 10 Films from the Rising Stars of Midwest Filmmaking
We are dedicated to nurturing the next generation of Midwest filmmakers. Emerging Filmmakers Night showcases ten films from talented creators in the first decade of their careers. Whether they are film school students or individuals pursuing their lifelong passion for filmmaking, these emerging filmmakers have arrived and become an integral part of our community. This is their work.
Adcomm Night: Showcasing the Brilliance of the Advertising Industry
Midwest Film Festival's 10th annual Advertising Community Night! Witness the magic of The Midwest's vibrant advertising scene and connect with both newly discovered talent and top executives. This showcase features heartwarming storytelling, mind-blowing special effects, and captivating commercial masterpieces. To qualify, you must be a working professional in the advertising industry. Submit your best work, whether it’s a passion project, a commercial, or something in between. Just ensure you have obtained all the necessary permissions and consents.
