Annual Chicago Southland International Film Festival Set for April 9 to 11
Governors State University to host collaboration with Mezcla Media Collective and other Chicago-area artists
A series of films showcasing the unique qualities of Chicago will be featured in the 8th Annual Chicago Southland International Film Festival (CSIFF) at Governors State University (GovState) April 9 to 11.
Shades of Chicago is a collection of nine diverse short films by local women and gender-expansive filmmakers of color. The filmmakers, part of the Mezcla Media Collective, are joining CSIFF for the first time to help bring visibility to local artists, said Joshua E. Young, CSIFF co-founder and Director.
“This is really part of our mission to give emerging filmmakers additional exposure and opportunities,” said Young.
CSIFF, a three-day showcase, will bring international shorts, local feature and short films to Chicago's vibrant audiences, featuring compelling storytelling and unforgettable experiences from artists ranging from students to professional filmmakers.
Tiyen Simmons, a GovState alum, will also be featured in the Short Film Competition programming for his film, Anonymous, a look at an emotional therapist who confronts her own pain in an unlikely outcome.
Schedule
CSIFF commences on Thursday, April 9, at 5 p.m. in the F-Wing Atrium with its annual KickOff Cocktail Reception, where guests can mingle and unwind with a cash bar and delectable hors d'oeuvres, setting the stage for an unforgettable weekend of film and celebration.
Throughout the weekend, attendees can enjoy their selection of Short Film Programs and the Feature Film Showcase with live, post-film Q&As with the filmmakers. Films range in genre from comedy to drama, horror to animation, and everything in between.
Then on April 11, the festival will culminate with the CSIFF Awards Show & Reception at 6:30 p.m. in the E – Lounge. This affair will honor the outstanding filmmakers and their remarkable talent. Attendees will have the opportunity to indulge in an open bar and sumptuous hors d'oeuvres as they toast to the filmmakers’ success.
Click here for the full schedule of events and screenings.
Passes and ticket options include single-program tickets, a 3 Program Pack, and Festival Passes, granting access to all screenings and events. Festival passes are available here.
Discounts are also available for students, GovState employees, and veterans. Visit Eventive ticketing site for purchases.
Watch the official 2026 CSIFF Teaser Trailer here.
Follow CSIFF on Facebook and Instagram for the latest festival news and announcements.
Contact:
Suzanne Patterson, Audience Liaison, CSIFF
708-534-4393