The Kurdish Cultural Center of Illinois is proud to present the inaugural Chicago Kurdish Film Festival, a two day celebration of Kurdish culture, heritage, and storytelling through the medium of cinema. This groundbreaking event seeks to immerse and introduce audiences to the richness and diversity of Kurdish narratives.

The festival will showcase a curated selection of narrative and documentary films, both features and shorts, though the eyes of Kurdish filmmakers both in Kurdistan and in the diaspora. This year’s theme is Kurdish history, conflict, traditions, as well as contemporary issues. We invite Kurdish filmmakers to submit their films through August 10th, 2024.

This film festival is a testament to the power of storytelling not only as an art form but as an act of resistance. The compelling personal narratives will give audiences an understanding of Kurdistan with more depth, nuance, and poignance.

1. Submissions are open to filmmakers exploring Kurdish culture, history, or related issues.
2. Films must have been completed between January 1, 2021, and August, 2024.
3. Films must be submitted electronically via FilmFreeway.
4. English subtitles are mandatory.
5. Maximum of two entries per filmmaker.
6. A selection committee, appointed by the Kurdish Cultural Center of Illinois, will review submissions.
7. Films submitted to other festivals are welcome.
8. The festival reserves the right to use film excerpts, stills, names, and likenesses for promotional purposes.
9. The Kurdish Cultural Center of Illinois reserves the right to decline submissions.
10. The festival aims to represent diverse Kurdish regions and perspectives.
11. Materials will not be returned; ensure digital submissions are complete and final.
12. Filmmakers should submit a press kit which includes still photos for promotional purposes.

DECISION-MAKING PROCEDURE

The selection committee will review all submissions and notify filmmakers of their decisions 6-8 weeks before the festival's start date. Some films not selected for competition may still be chosen for screening during the festival. All filmmakers will receive notification of their film's status in due course.

Overall Rating
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  • Ron Butler

    Great festival! Thank you again for screening our short film Ezda!

    November 2024