***PLEASE NOTE: At this time, the Chicago Film Symposium is currently open to filmmakers based in the Chicago metropolitan area.***

***Please read the Rules and Terms section carefully BEFORE submitting your film!***

The Chicago Film Symposium is an intimate one-day event celebrating films by Black and brown Chicago-based filmmakers.

We aim to amplify diverse stories through impactful films, insightful panels, and community connections that foster inspiration and meaningful dialogue.

This year's theme, “Poetic Just-Us,” serves as a heartfelt tribute to our heritage, a thoughtful reflection of our present moment, and a vibrant celebration of the boundless possibilities that lie within our shared future. As Nikki Giovanni reminds us: “The world is not a problem to be solved; it is a place to be experienced.”

Awards & Prizes

Awards include honorariums, official recognition by the Chicago Film Symposium organizers, and the opportunity to take part in a featured director’s panel.

Rules & Terms

***Please note that your film will be disqualified if it does not meet these requirements. Read this section CAREFULLY before submitting!***

Eligibility:
• Films must be directed or co-directed by filmmakers based in the Chicago metropolitan area.
• Open to filmmakers of BIPOC descent.
• Eligible categories: short film, documentary, experimental film, or narrative film.
• Films must have been completed between January 1, 2020 and the present.
• We especially welcome films that have not yet had wide festival exposure in the Chicago area.

Submission Guidelines
• Submit a private Vimeo or YouTube link (with password if applicable).
• Non-English language films must include English subtitles.
• Works-in-progress are eligible if the final cut will be ready by the screening date.
• Filmmakers must have secured all necessary rights (music, footage, etc.).

Selection Process
• All submissions will be reviewed by the Chicago Film Symposium programming team.
• Selected filmmakers will be notified by email.
• Final decisions are at the discretion of the programming team and are not open to appeal.
• Selected filmmakers must provide a high-quality digital file for exhibition (specs provided upon acceptance).

Screening Details
• Selected films will screen at the 2025 Chicago Film Symposium.
• Filmmakers may be invited to participate in post-screening panels or Q&As.
• Selected filmmakers will receive a screening fee, an honorarium, complimentary event access, and be celebrated as honored guests.

Rights & Permissions
• By submitting, filmmakers grant the Chicago Film Symposium permission to screen their film and use selected stills or excerpts (up to 30 seconds) for event promotion.
• Filmmakers retain full ownership of their work.

Community Commitment
• We expect all participants to engage in a spirit of respect, inclusion, and community building.
• Harassment, discrimination, or disruptive behavior will not be tolerated and may result in removal from the event.

1 Review
Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Reginald Rice

    I had an excellent experience at the 2025 Chicago Film Symposium. I highly recommend filmmakers to submit their work or just attend to support this amazing group of organizers/cultural ambassadors.

    November 2025
    Helpful