
UPDATE: The 61st Chicago International Film Festival opens today, October 15, and runs through October 26, showcasing a vibrant lineup of films that promise to captivate audiences. Despite the pandemic’s impact on moviegoing habits, festival organizers report a surge in attendance, with audiences now younger than ever.
Artistic director Mimi Plauché shared, “Our audience attendance exceeds pre-pandemic levels,” noting that 42% of attendees last year were under 35. This year’s festival kicks off with the documentary One Golden Summer, directed by Kevin Shaw, which delves into the controversial story of the Jackie Robinson West Little League team, whose national championship title was stripped due to eligibility issues.
The festival is hosted at AMC Newcity 14 and includes screenings across multiple venues such as the Music Box Theatre and the Gene Siskel Film Center. With a diverse array of films, from international narratives to potential Oscar contenders, CIFF is set to engage both local and global audiences.
Among the highly anticipated films is Brendan Fraser’s Rental Family, which follows an American actor in Tokyo who reluctantly takes a job posing as a father for a young girl. Plauché emphasized the film’s emotional depth, linking it to her own experiences in Japan.
As the festival progresses, it will close with the comedy Eternity, featuring Elizabeth Olsen in a unique narrative about choosing between afterlife partners. The film is described as colorful and filled with humor, promising an entertaining finale.
The festival also highlights pressing global issues with films like The Voice of Hind Rajab, which showcases a young girl’s plea for help during the ongoing crisis in Gaza. This documentary won the jury prize at the Venice International Film Festival, highlighting its impactful storytelling.
In addition to these narratives, the festival presents a retrospective of acclaimed director Kelly Reichardt, featuring films that explore contemporary themes, and recognizes Nia DaCosta with the Artistic Achievement Award for her innovative work, including a reimagined version of Hedda Gabler.
Festival-goers can also experience the Criterion Mobile Closet, allowing fans to purchase curated DVDs while engaging with the brand’s culture. However, accessibility concerns from previous years remain unaddressed.
With a lineup this diverse and timely, the Chicago International Film Festival is not just a celebration of cinema but a platform for urgent conversations. Don’t miss your chance to witness these compelling stories unfold on the big screen. For more information, visit chicagofilmfestival.com.