New Wave International Film Festival in Chicago
Hello filmmakers, storytellers and movie lovers!
Welcome to the Chicago New Wave International Film Festival. We are thrilled to open our doors to creative people from around the world who are pushing boundaries and redefining what cinema can be.
Here in Chicago, we know a thing or two about breaking the mold. This city has a rich cinematic history, from the Blues Brothers who turned our streets into high-octane chases to the indie films that have made Chicago their home over the years.
But this festival is as much about looking back as it is about looking forward. “New Wave is about fresh ideas, bold visions and voices that challenge the status quo. We want to spotlight those who are not afraid to take risks and tell the stories that need to be told.
As jury members, we're not here to corral anyone or fit your work into neat categories. We're here to celebrate originality, spark conversations, and amplify a vision that makes us see the world differently.
So whether your movie is a heartfelt drama, a mind-blowing experimental work, or a hilarious comedy, we can't wait to see it. Chicago is ready to welcome your creativity with open arms and share it with audiences hungry for something new.
Our next Live Event will be held at 15th of March 2025 at Red Room Comedy Club.
Let's make this a celebration of cinema like no other.
See you at the festival,
Jury
Chicago New Wave International Film Festival.
New Wave Jury Grand Prize
Breakthrough Award
Best Feature Film Award
Best Short Film Award
Chicago New Wave Innovator Award
Best Documentary Award
Outstanding Cinematic Vision Award
Best Screenplay Award
Best Performance Award
Audience Award
Additional Categories:
Best Experimental Film
Genre Category: Drama, Thriller, Sci-Fi and etc
Best Music Video
Best Director
Best Actor
Best Actress
Best Cinematography
Best Scenography
Best VFX
Best Composer
Best Make-Up