The Midwest Film Festival (MFF) is the nation's only film festival solely dedicated to the Midwest filmmaker, presenting audiences with regionally produced cinema throughout the year. This year-round film festival sits proudly at the center of the film scene in Chicago and the Midwest and is dedicated to showcasing and celebrating the exceptional talent of regionally produced cinema while providing unwavering support and empowerment to these filmmakers.
ATTENTION: MIDWEST FILM FESTIVAL IS A YEAR-ROUND FESTIVAL AND THE EVENT DATE LISTED ON FilmFreeway AS THE "EVENT DATE" IS OUR ANNUAL CAPSTONE EVENT, THE BEST OF THE MIDWEST AWARDS. HOWEVER, WHEN SUBMITTING, YOUR FILM WILL BE CONSIDERED FOR OFFICIAL SELECTION AT ANY OF OUR MONTHLY EVENTS.
Join MFF on the Last Monday of each month at The Gene Siskel Film Center in downtown Chicago, IL, for monthly screenings. Each event includes an incredible line-up of Midwestern Films and opportunities to meet like-minded creatives and potential collaborators. For ticket information, visit www.midwestfilm.com/get-tickets
2023 Season Calendar:
Monday, January 29, 2024
Monday, February 26, 2024
Monday, March 25, 2024
Monday, April 29, 2024
TBD May, 2024 - Pop Up Road Show Event in Milwaukee, WI
Monday, June 24, 2024
Monday, July 29, 2024
Monday, August 26, 2024
Monday, September 30, 2024
TBD October, 2024 - Pop Up Road Show Event in Kansas City, MO
TBD November 2023 - The Best of The Midwest Awards
2024 SHORT FILM THEME NIGHTS:
Impact Night: Movies with Mission, Stories that Matter
- Join us for a captivating evening as we showcase impactful movies with a purpose. Impact Night features films that address important social issues and tell inspiring stories. Prepare to be moved and motivated to make a difference through the powerful medium of cinema.
Global Kaleidoscope Night: Exploring Cultural Diversity Through Film
- Embark on a cinematic journey around the world with Global Kaleidoscope. This event celebrates the richness of diverse cultures and explores different cultural roots through a thoughtfully curated selection of films. Immerse yourself in captivating stories from various corners of the globe and gain a deeper appreciation for the tapestry of humanity's cultural heritage.
Analog Night: Journeying into the Nostalgia of Analog Cinema
- Experience the revival of classic cinema mediums in the Midwest filmmaking community at Analog Night. This special evening celebrates and highlights the artistry of analog film and the passion of analog film enthusiasts. Join us to celebrate the beauty and challenges of (partially or entirely) analog filmmaking. [Note: Digital Projection]
Emerging Filmmakers Night: 10 Films from the Rising Stars of Midwest Filmmaking
- We are dedicated to nurturing the next generation of Midwest filmmakers. Emerging Filmmakers Night showcases ten films from talented creators in the first decade of their careers. Whether they are film school students or individuals pursuing their lifelong passion for filmmaking, these emerging filmmakers have arrived and become an integral part of our community. This is their work.
Adcomm Night: Showcasing the Brilliance of the Advertising Industry
- Midwest Film Festival's 10th annual Advertising Community Night! Witness the magic of The Midwest's vibrant advertising scene and connect with both newly discovered talent and top executives. This showcase features heartwarming storytelling, mind-blowing special effects, and captivating commercial masterpieces. To qualify, you must be a working professional in the advertising industry. Submit your best work, whether it’s a passion project, a commercial, or something in between. Just ensure you have obtained all the necessary permissions and consents.
Each screening will include festival laurels for all official selections. Films and filmmakers selected as an official selection during this year-round film festival will be automatically eligible for nomination to be recognized with an award at the Best of the Midwest Awards (BMAs), our annual gala event and fundraiser.