The Chicago Southland International Film Festival kicks off at GovState
Co-authored by Josh Young, Program Director of Digital Learning and Media Design, and Lisa Redmond, Staff Writer
Governors State University’s (GovState) 6th Annual Chicago Southland International Film Festival (CSIFF) runs from Thursday, April 4 through Saturday, April 6, 2024.
The three-day showcase will bring international shorts and local feature films to Chicago's vibrant southland in a three-day extravaganza of exceptional films, compelling storytelling, and unforgettable experiences told by artists who range from high school to professional filmmakers.
Joshua E. Young, Co-Founder at Chicago Southland International Film Festival, said “We are extremely excited about the 31 short films and two feature films selected for this year’s festival! This year has some of the best films we’ve had to date including some truly incredible animated films, emotional dramas, and thrilling sci-fi and horror! There is something for everyone!”
Highlights of CSIFF 2024 include:
Feature Film Showcase: Experience the locally produced film "Bike Vessel," directed by the talented Eric D. Seals, alongside other handpicked films curated by CSIFF committee members. Bike Vessel is a very important, inspiring documentary about personal health, and how a father and son battle together against long held dietary practices that have led to near-death health scares. It also delves into healthcare disparities in black communities.
Additionally, the micro-budget feature film Provo will also run as part of the Feature Film Showcase for Thursday, April 4. Provo is very much a film about overcoming past family trauma. It’s beautifully filmed and both the lead actress (who is also the writer and director) and actor have such a natural chemistry. Both films are locally produced.
International Short Film Competition: Witness the creativity of filmmakers from around the globe in five carefully selected program segments over three days, including a family-friendly program.
CSIFF’s opening kickoff event will be on Thursday, April 4, at 5 p.m. in the F-Wing Atrium. At this cocktail reception, guests can mingle and unwind with a full bar and delectable hors d'oeuvres, setting the stage for an unforgettable weekend of film and celebration.
Then on April 6, the festival will culminate with the CSIFF Awards Ceremony at 6 p.m. in the E – Lounge. This glamorous affair will honor the outstanding filmmakers and their remarkable talent. Attendees will have an opportunity to indulge in a full bar and sumptuous hors d'oeuvres as they toast to the success of the festival.
Click here for the full schedule of events and screenings.
Tickets prices vary to meet every festival goer’s need with various passes and ticket options available, including single program tickets and VIP Festival passes granting all-access to all screenings and events, attendees can tailor their experience to suit their preferences.
Discounts are also available for students, GovState employees, and veterans. Visit Eventive ticketing site for purchases.
The Chicago Southland International Film Festival 2024 will be held at Governors State University in Lecture Hall F1622 on the east side of the campus. Parking is available in East Lot 3 for convenient access to the venue.
For more information and updates, visit www.govst.edu/csiff or contact Josh Young at jyoung4@govst.edu.