Chicago International Film Festival 2025: A Celebration of Global Cinema

The 61st Chicago International Film Festival (CIFF) is set to take place from October 15 to 26, 2025, showcasing a diverse array of films from around the globe. With its main hub at the AMC NewCity 14, the festival will also feature screenings at iconic venues such as the Music Box Theatre, Gene Siskel Film Center, and the Chicago History Museum. Tickets for the festival will be available for members starting September 19 and for the general public on September 22.

A Rich Tapestry of Film Selections

This year’s lineup promises a blend of critically acclaimed films, local narratives, and international features that could potentially compete for the Academy Award for Best International Feature. Among the highlights are “Train Dreams,” “Hedda,” and the Centerpiece Film “Rental Family.” Notable filmmakers such as Joel Edgerton, Nia DaCosta, Hikari, and Kelly Reichardt will be present to receive awards, adding a personal touch to the festival.

The festival will kick off with “One Golden Summer,” a film by Chicago filmmaker Kevin Shaw, setting the tone for a celebration of local talent. CIFF has a long-standing tradition of spotlighting Chicago-centric stories, which enriches the festival’s cultural fabric.

International Features and Oscar Contenders

CIFF is renowned for its commitment to showcasing international cinema. The festival’s top honor, the Golden Hugo, is awarded to the best international feature. Last year, Maura Delpero’s “Vermiglio” took home the prize, while the Silver Hugo Special Jury Prize was awarded to “All We Imagine as Light.” The festival has a history of recognizing films that later gain Oscar nominations, including “Drive My Car” and “The Worst Person in the World.”

This year, the festival will feature a panel discussion with directors of films submitted by their respective countries for Oscar consideration. Among the international films to be showcased are Jafar Panahi‘s “It Was Just an Accident,” Radu Jude’s “Dracula,” and Sergei Loznitsa’s “Two Prosecutors.” These selections reflect the festival’s dedication to presenting a wide range of perspectives and storytelling styles.

Special Awards and Tributes

The festival will honor several filmmakers with special awards. Nia DaCosta will receive the Artistic Achievement Award for her film “Hedda,” while Euzhan Palcy will be recognized with the Black Perspectives Tribute and Career Achievement Award for her work in “Sugar Cane Alley.” The Spotlight Award will go to Hikari, celebrating her storytelling prowess in “Rental Family.”

Joel Edgerton will also be honored for his performance in “Train Dreams,” which explores themes of grief and resilience. Additionally, acclaimed director Kelly Reichardt will participate in a retrospective of her work, including films like “Old Joy” and “First Cow,” culminating in a screening of her latest film, “The Mastermind.”

Global Cinema Snapshots

The festival’s Snapshots program will highlight contemporary global cinema, featuring films such as “This Island,” a coming-of-age story set in Puerto Rico, and “Pasa Faho,” which follows a Nigerian shoe salesman in Australia. Taiwan’s official submission for the Best International Feature Academy Award, “Left-Handed Girl,” will also be screened, showcasing the festival’s commitment to diverse narratives.

Other notable films include “The President’s Cake,” a whimsical tale from Iran, and “Arco,” an animated adventure from France. These selections not only entertain but also provoke thought, reflecting the complexities of modern life across different cultures.

Special Events and Industry Engagement

CIFF will host a variety of special events, including the Criterion Mobile Closet, which will feature over 1,700 films from around the world. This unique initiative aims to inspire filmmakers and cinephiles alike. The festival will also host Industry Days, providing a platform for filmmakers and industry professionals to network and share ideas.

Keynote speakers will include Bing Liu, director of “Minding the Gap,” who will discuss his transition to fiction filmmaking with “Preparation for the Next Life.” The Documentary Summit will feature veteran filmmakers Lisa Cortés and Michèle Stephenson, offering insights into the documentary filmmaking process.

Celebrating Chicago’s Filmmakers

The festival will shine a spotlight on local talent through its City & State program. Films such as “Adult Children,” which explores the challenges faced by a sheltered teenager, and “Before the Call,” a drama set against the backdrop of a global crisis, will be featured. This focus on Chicago filmmakers not only enriches the festival but also fosters a sense of community and collaboration within the local film industry.

Short Films and Emerging Voices

CIFF will present a diverse array of short films, ranging from comedies to dramas and documentaries. Highlights include “Debaters,” featuring J. Smith-Cameron and Kenneth Lonergan, and “Nervous Energy,” which follows two aspiring filmmakers. The festival will also introduce a new shorts program, Outré, showcasing unconventional narratives that push the boundaries of storytelling.

Conclusion

The 2025 Chicago International Film Festival promises to be a vibrant celebration of cinema, bringing together filmmakers, industry professionals, and audiences from around the world. With its rich lineup of films, special awards, and engaging events, CIFF continues to solidify its reputation as a premier destination for film lovers. As the festival approaches, anticipation builds for the stories that will unfold on the big screen, reflecting the diverse tapestry of human experience.