Chicago's 45th annual international film festival runs from October 8-22 this year. Attending this festival, if only for one film, is an eye-opening experience outside of the predictable blockbuster with cartons of greasy popcorn. It's a chance for insight into the real issues and bold stories from around the world in a myriad of languages. Often made with little room for special effects, powerful plots and acting must compensate.
How to See a Film at Chicago's International Festival
For first time film festival goers, it's essential to first research the schedule of films and their stories. As indie films aren't plastered all over commercial space between must-see TV line-ups, those interested in Chicago's film festival can find what's playing online.
Choosing an International Film to See at Chicago's Film Festival
There are many ways to choose a film other than doing so around a work schedule. Several films are shown more than once during the festival, however when one chooses to see it may affect the price as it may be a gala or special presentation night.
Even a mild interest in a particular country can help with one's decision. What better way to learn more about the threads that weave a culture together than to see a story by a filmmaker from that country. This year, filmgoers can choose films with directors from countries like Brazil, Russia, China, Canada, the UK, Hungary, the Czech Republic, India, Germany, Mexico, and France to name a few.
Certainly not all film festival entries are serious dramas. The 2009 line-up is dotted with comedies, horror, science fiction, short films, and action thrillers. Plots are summarized on the Chicago International Film Festival website.
Chicago's International Film Festival Ticket Prices
Individual film tickets for non-members are $12.00, while Chicago Cinema members, students, and seniors pay $9.00. For those who want to take advantage of the festival, 10 to 20 film passes are available .
- 10 film pass (non-members) - $110
- 10 film pass (members, students, and seniors) - $80
- 20 film pass (non-members) - $210
- 20 film pass (members, students, and seniors) - $155
How and When to Buy Tickets for Chicago's International Film Festival
Tickets can be purchased online through ticketmaster.com, by phone or in person. Going to either the AMC River East 21 cinema on 322 E. Illinois St. or the Chicago Cinema Office on 30 E. Adams St. Suite 800 in Chicago is the cheapest option as fees apply when purchasing tickets online and by phone.
For those dead-set on seeing a particular film, it's essential to buy tickets in advance as some shows sell out quickly.
What Makes a Chicago Film Festival Showing Unique?
Film festivals sprout up all over the world, year-round. No one should be intimidated by stereotypes of pretentious film critics. The point of these films is to get a message out and tell a story, just like any other movie.
Film festival entries are judged just like ordinary movies, however, after each Chicago Film Festival showing, the audience gets to individually rate the film on a card. Directors, producers, and even actors are sometimes present for an allotted Q&A session at the end. All of this contributes to a stronger rapport between film and viewer.
Film festival films are raw or unrated, therefore some films don't hold back on the violence, sex, and language.
A different experience, a clearer perspective of someplace new, and an overall fun night out supports international filmmakers, some who may be struggling to breakthrough by telling a story from far away.
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