(WBBM NEWSRADIO) — Chicago is celebrating independent film this weekend with its own version of the Sundance Film Festival. The city and the Sundance Institute are partnering for Chicago’s first ever Sundance film event.
"It is a special weekend of independent film programming, screenings, events, panels, workshops, community events, networking events, just a real celebration celebrating creative independence and independent film," said Jonah Zeiger with the Chicago Film Office, which is a part of the Chicago’s Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events.
Zeiger said he approached Sundance last summer with the idea.
"Between values that Sundance has for new voices and independent storytelling, and then Chicago's culture of creativity, collaboration, community. And so, we all felt like we should explore something."
The event, which is being hosted in partnership with Choose Chicago, features screenings of four films that premiered at Sundance Film Festival in Park City, Utah, in January. This will be the Sundance Institute's first film event in the U.S. outside its home in Park City, Utah.
"There are so many organizations in this town, and this is just an incredible opportunity to experience and learn a little bit more about independent film."
Zeiger says the event will further establish Chicago as a leader in film.
"Sundance, its brand is so well-known and everyone takes notice. When you hear Sundance is doing something, people are like, ‘Oh, what are they doing?’ So, people will be wondering, ‘why did they choose Chicago?’ ‘What's going on in Chicago?’ And hopefully in this programming you're going to see how much Chicago is engaged, what is going on here"
Along with screenings, Zeiger says attendees can also sign up for various film-related panels, discussions, and community events.
Screen tickets cost $20 and can be purchased on the Choose Chicago website. The four movies being screened are “Luther: Never Too Much,” “Sugarcane,” “A Different Man,” and “Your Monster.”
More information about screening times, panels and community events can be found on the Choose Chicago website.
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