Upcoming Chicago International Film Festival Highlights Unique Events and Films

The Chicago International Film Festival (CIFF) is gearing up for a new initiative that promises to blend the nostalgia of physical media with modern cinematic experiences. Set for October 14-25, 2026, the latest development is inspired by last year’s success with the mobile Criterion Closet. While the truck-based DVD collection from Criterion will not return, it paved the way for a physical media fair.

Festival organizers believe this idea aligns naturally with the essence of a film festival. Film festivals offer an opportunity to step away from home and enjoy movies in a theater setting. The concept is to celebrate both the traditional theatrical experience and the personal collection of physical media. Artistic director Mimi Plauché sees a connection between visiting theaters and owning DVDs and Blu-rays.

The festival will host roundtable discussions and a swap event where attendees can trade DVDs, Blu-rays, and VHS tapes. “There is a lot of overlap between going to a theater to see a film and actually owning the physical object,” explained Plauché. The aim is to connect audiences with vendors perpetuating the life of physical media. While it is experimental, the enthusiasm surrounding the announcement indicates potential for making it a regular feature.

This year’s festival balances new films and classics. Two notable films celebrating their 30th anniversary are “The Watermelon Woman” by Cheryl Dunye and “Chocolate Babies” by Stephen Winter. Both filmmakers will attend to discuss their comedies, which incorporate sharp satire and wit.

Special events include an evening with Marlon Wayans, who will receive the career achievement award. His contributions range from comedic roles in “Scary Movie” to dramatic performances in “Requiem for a Dream.” Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor will accept the tour de force award at the world premiere of “Liz Here Now,” a biopic set in 1960s Oakland.

Ava DuVernay offers a glimpse into her upcoming Netflix documentary “14th,” featuring discussions with experts on the 14th Amendment. This preview is part of a broader program encouraging serendipitous film discovery. Plauché encourages attendees to embrace unexpected choices and take chances on films they know little about.

Recommended Films on the Lineup

Mimi Plauché offers several film recommendations:

• “Club Kid” (Oct. 14): Opening the festival, directed by and starring Jordan Firstman. This film follows a New York club promoter whose life changes dramatically when he learns he is a father.
• “Finding Your Laughter” (Oct. 15): A documentary about Arlieta Hall, a comedian using improv to care for her Alzheimer’s-stricken father.
• “All of a Sudden” (Oct. 16 and 17): Ryusuke Hamaguchi’s film set between France and Japan, exploring elder care through a new perspective.
• “Tender Loving Care” (Oct. 17 and 25): Mike Leigh’s exploration of social structures impacting human relationships. It is marked as the director’s last film.
• “The Echo Chamber” (Oct. 20): A posthumous project from Bernardo Bertolucci, focusing on a music producer’s struggles amid personal challenges.
• “The Liberation” (Oct. 23): Starring Carrie Coon, this film delves into a mother’s involvement with a cult in the 1980s.
• “Behemoth!” (Oct. 25): Directed by Tony Gilroy, this closing night feature highlights music’s significant role in life and cinema, featuring Pedro Pascal.