CHICAGO
INDEPENDENT
FILM FESTIVAL
Where stone and water engage in eternal dialogue, where wind turns streets into music, where independent cinema becomes revelation
CINEMA AS
RESISTANCE
Independent cinema is born here as a revelation, like a sudden wind from Lake Michigan that changes the direction of the sails. It does not obey the laws of the industry.
Independent cinema is like a mirror broken into pieces, each of which reflects its own truth. It is a voice that sounds even when they try to silence it.
NEW PERSPECTIVES
A gaze that sees what others ignore. New ways to talk about important things.
PURE EMOTION
Where film becomes not a product, but a revelation, not a commodity, but a cry.
ELECTRIC TRUTH
An act of resistance, a declaration of love, a challenge to the familiar.
CHICAGO CINEMA STORIES
Every frame captures Chicago's soul. Every story becomes cinema. This is where independent films are born.
AWARDS & RECOGNITION
MAIN FESTIVAL AWARDS
Best Film
The absolute heart of the festival
Best Short Film
Special magic in short form
Best Documentary
Honest exploration of reality
Best Debut
Courage of first steps
Best Experimental
Breaking convention, creating new language
SUBMIT YOUR
REBELLION
Ready to join the independent film manifesto?
Your story becomes part of Chicago's rhythm.
🎬 All genres welcome
âš¡ No experience barriers
🔥 Only meaningful cinema
VENUE &
LOCATION
LOCATION
Theatre momentum
1541 W Belmont Ave, Chicago, IL 60657
DATES
February 8, 2026
SCHEDULE
All Day Screenings
FESTIVAL RULES
FREEDOM BEGINS WITH RESPECT
FESTIVAL BY THE NUMBERS
GET IN TOUCH
CONTACT INFO
info@iconic-chicago.com
Film submissions & inquiries
Chicago, IL
Festival headquarters
FOLLOW THE REBELLION
SEND MESSAGE
READY TO CHANGE THE WORLD WITH CINEMA?
ICONIC CHICAGO INDEPENDENT FILM FESTIVAL © 2024