IFA Chicago and Jake Prine Present: Indie Takes, A Screening Series
May
17
6:30 PM18:30

IFA Chicago and Jake Prine Present: Indie Takes, A Screening Series

  • IFA Chicago at Cinespace Studios (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Come for the screening, stay for the community. IFA Chicago and Jake Prine of Kernel Productions are delighted to bring you a brand new series, Indie Takes!

Join us on May 17th for a special screening of unique indie film “BAM!”, followed by an exclusive conversation with director, Jordan Tragash!

Synopsis: The lives of gig economy workers intersect during a hot Chicago summer in this rollicking modern day farce. A nonbinary bike messenger delivers sex toys, two sisters deliver art for their mother, and two roommates watch their best friend's drug empire while he takes a vacation.

BAM! trailer here!

This is an in-person event at IFA Chicago! Tickets are $15 for the public, and $8 for IFA members. To learn more about IFA membership, see below!

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In Focus With... Jon Silver
May
24
7:00 PM19:00

In Focus With... Jon Silver

Join us at Chicago Filmmakers, for a screening and In Focus With… Director and IFA Chicago member Jon Silver!

THE PREMIERE | IN-PERSON (5/24)

1326 W Hollywood Ave | Saturday May 24, 2025 | 7:00PM

On the night of his first movie premiere, Jacob Sanders is hounded by mounting issues and paranoid delusions appearing on the screen. Disaster looms at every turn - his family argues, audience members complain, the popcorn machine breaks, and the movie file doesn’t work.

All of these problems are exacerbated by the rumored arrival of a famous actor. Jacob struggles to overcome disaster, all while fending off criticisms, expectations, and disturbing figments of his imagination.

Director and IFA Chicago member Jon Silver will be in attendance for a Q&A after the screening. _

Chicago Filmmakers does not deny admission to those who do not have the ability to make a donation. Please email coop@chicagofilmmakers.org to inquire about free admission.

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Screen Time at The Davis Theater!
May
29
6:00 PM18:00

Screen Time at The Davis Theater!

Mxxd Media and IFA Chicago are delighted to host year three of Chicago-made short films!

Mark your calendars and submit your films!

The night will kick off with a thoughtful, industry-relevant keynote at 6 PM. Useful discussions, beautiful films, and who knows what else?

IFA Members receive a 20% discount on tix! Head to the membership portal for your discount code.

Interested in joining IFA? Membership is only $8.33 a month. ($100/year) Click on this link for membership details!

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IFA CHICAGO & SAG-AFTRA CHICAGO'S: AT THE TABLE - Invasion of the Housewives
Jun
2
6:00 PM18:00

IFA CHICAGO & SAG-AFTRA CHICAGO'S: AT THE TABLE - Invasion of the Housewives

Join us for our series, At The Table, in partnership with SAG-AFTRA Chicago, for a table read of the script: Invasion of the Housewives

Invasion of the Housewives follows a group of suburban women trapped at a girls’ night during a supposed alien invasion. As inexplicable events unfold, and conflicting news divides the group, the women begin to turn on one another.

Written & Directed by Zach Lorkiewicz

Produced by Grace Hahn

This event is open to IFA Members and SAG-AFTRA invitees only. See below for membership details, or reach out to us at info@ifachicago.org

 
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The Wedding Banquet and Asian American Romance
Jun
7
10:30 AM10:30

The Wedding Banquet and Asian American Romance

  • Alliance Française de Chicago (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

This April marked the commercial release of Andrew Ahn’s The Wedding Banquet, a Korean-American remake of Ang Lee’s beloved and Oscar-nominated Taiwanese comedy-drama from 1993. Part of our session will compare and contrast these two takes on shared material and highlight past work by Ahn, a remarkable, versatile filmmaker whose work deserves more attention. We will also celebrate The Wedding Banquet as a rare and meaningful course-correct in a U.S. film culture that has alternately desexualized and over-sexualized Asian and Asian American characters, only rarely promoting them as romantic leads.

Recommended viewing: Both versions of The Wedding Banquet and, if time, Ahn’s Fire Island (Hulu) and/or Alice Wu’s Saving Face (multiple streaming platforms).

 

Please note: The discussion does not include screenings of films.

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Lawyers for the Creative Arts - Sexual Harassment Prevention & Bystander Training
Jun
27
1:00 PM13:00

Lawyers for the Creative Arts - Sexual Harassment Prevention & Bystander Training

Everyone employed in Chicago must complete Sexual Harassment and Bystander Intervention Training on an annual basis! 

An employer’s failure to train employees could result in fines as high as $10,000, plus attorney fees. 

Lawyers for the Creative Arts wants to make sure that every arts organization with one or more Chicago employees is in compliance and has a clear understanding of their responsibilities under the new law. 

This training will satisfy the annual training requirement for Chicago Employers and includes the two hour Sexual Harassment Prevention Training for supervisors and managers and one hour Bystander Training for all employees, plus a Q & A session at the end. 

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IFA Chicago & Pixquid Film Pop-Up Series, Vol. 3: Creative + Asian = Crasian!
May
8
6:00 PM18:00

IFA Chicago & Pixquid Film Pop-Up Series, Vol. 3: Creative + Asian = Crasian!

Join us for some dumplings and sake at the our AAPI Heritage Month celebration with a screening of short films by AAPI filmmakers and artists!

​Program includes:

​6p Reception

​6:30p Screening of short films by AAPI filmmakers and artists
The Gift by Elizabeth Love
Follower by Ryan Park
Arrangements by Thavary Krouch
Lab 99 by Rujanee Mahakanjana

7:30p Q&A/Talkback with filmmakers in attendance

​Admission is $10 (IFA Members, check your member portal for discounts).

Seats are limited so grab yours today!

​​​Pixquid® is a content ecosystem that combines streaming, community, and a marketplace where artists connect, collaborate, and grow with partners while maintaining full control - all in one place. To get started, join for free today at pixquid.com.

​​Independent Film Alliance Chicago is a non-profit organization that provides the community and resources needed to build a diverse and sustainable industry of independent content creators. IFA believes in Chicago as a place where all media creatives can achieve their dreams. For more info or to become a member, visit ifachicago.org.

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Festival Ready: Best Practices for Filmmakers and Festival Organizers - An Online Event!
May
7
6:00 PM18:00

Festival Ready: Best Practices for Filmmakers and Festival Organizers - An Online Event!

Join the Chicago Alliance of Film Festivals and the IFA Chicago for a virtual session with Barbara Twist from the Film Festival Alliance exploring FFA's tools and initiatives that support both filmmakers and festivals.

Barbara will introduce the Film Festival Directory, a resource connecting mission-driven film festivals with the filmmaking community, and share best practices for festival engagement, including submissions navigation, communication, and relationship-building.

We'll also highlight FFA's new partnership with FilmFreeway, designed to improve transparency across the submission ecosystem.

This session is tailored for filmmakers and film festivals alike, with time for Q&A with Barbara as well as Chicago attorney Elaine Wyder. 

This Workshop co-presented by Chicago Alliance of Film Festivals and IFA Chicago

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Legal Clinic: Contract Review with Loeb & Loeb (Apply by April 25th)
May
6
1:00 PM13:00

Legal Clinic: Contract Review with Loeb & Loeb (Apply by April 25th)

Join Lawyers for the Creative Arts on May 6th from 1PM-4PM CT, for an in-person contract review clinic. Each organization or independent artist will be paired with attorneys from Loeb & Loeb and TransUnion to work through and update a current contract. You’ll walk away with a document ready to support your creative plans.   

Are you working as or with a visual artist, designer, musician, or writer to create new work? Your contract needs to include intellectual property clauses and we’re here to help!  

Learn about best practices for work made for hire, commissions, and assignments/licenses and get your contract updated with Lawyers for the Creative Arts and attorneys at Loeb & Loeb and TransUnion.  

Contracts for: 

  • Work for Hire 

  • Commissioned Work 

  • Assignments 

  • Licensing Agreements 

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'Single-Use Planet' @Alt Space Chicago, Hosted By One Earth Film Festival
Apr
25
5:30 PM17:30

'Single-Use Planet' @Alt Space Chicago, Hosted By One Earth Film Festival

Doors open at 5:30 for check-in and an exhibition by Alt Space Chicago’s Redemptive Plastics project, with art displays and functional art made solely from single-use plastics.

Arrive early to talk with action partners, avoid lines, and get the best seats.

FILM DESCRIPTION: "Single-Use Planet" is a documentary film that investigates the issue of single-use plastic pollution, particularly focusing on the political and economic factors driving the excessive production of plastic, by examining the construction of new plastic manufacturing plants in the United States, primarily in Pennsylvania and Louisiana, and exploring how powerful industry lobbying influences policy decisions that contribute to the environmental crisis; it aims to highlight the need for systemic change to reduce single-use plastic waste by exposing the political forces behind its continued production. Winner of: Best U.S. Documentary, Santa Cruz Independent Film Fest/Best U.S. Documentary, Austin International Art Festival/Award of Distinction, IndieFEST Film Awards/Award of Excellence, Impact Docs/Award of Excellence, Accolade Global Film Competition.

Teens and young adults are encouraged to attend.

We will also be screening one of the One Earth Young Filmmakers winning films Throwaway Living by Helen Sun and Laura Malatos.

Stay after the film for an enlightening facilitated dialogue with relevant experts and advocates.

Panelists:

Nathan Miller, Artist

Cody Norman, Artist

Mercedes Pickett, Earth's Remedies

Lillian Holden, Holden Nature, City Ecologist + Naturalist

Sophia Vela, Chicago Department of Environment

Moderated by Justin Dwaun Redding

Our Facilitator for the evening will be Jordan Campbell, Founder & Director, Alt Space Chicago.

ADA-compliant accessible venue.

Please note: When booking tickets, your information will never be shared with any 3rd party outside of One Earth Film Festival and its co-hosting partners bringing you this event.

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Script Night! April 24th
Apr
24
6:30 PM18:30

Script Night! April 24th

  • IFA Chicago at Cinespace Studios (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Script Night! is a bi-monthly workshop which gives screenwriters and filmmakers a chance to connect, and provide feedback on scripts in development. In April, Script Night! will be hosted at The IFA Chicago Hub, Cinespace Studios. Scripts are due April 9th. RSVPs due by April 16th.

Sign up to share your script (30 page maximum), or volunteer to read selected scripts before attending. Up to five scripts will be selected for feedback. Everyone who registers will be given access to the scripts 1-2 weeks in advance, to read and fill out the response forms ahead of time.

Participants are *not* required to have their own script, but are asked to read the selected scripts and provide feedback via an online coverage sheet. (Instructions will be included when sent out.) Scripts are due by 11:59pm CST on April 9th. Please submit your script using this Google Form**Please note you are also required to RSVP by April 16th for the event, using the registration button below.**

Script Night! Moderators are Jon Knecht, and IFA Members, Jennifer McMurtry, and Bish.

Questions? Email events@ifachicago.org

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KILLER OF SHEEP: Special Discount for IFA Chicago Members
Apr
18
4:30 PM16:30

KILLER OF SHEEP: Special Discount for IFA Chicago Members

 Charles Burnett’s landmark film, submitted as his UCLA Master’s thesis, is a quietly powerful exploration of Black working-class life in Los Angeles. Stan works at a slaughterhouse in Watts, labor he abhors. The burden of his work mirrors his strained marriage and the stress of the daily grind, causing Stan to question whether a better way of life is possible. Burnett’s minimalist style creates a deeply resonant portrait of hardship and resilience in a tough, unforgiving world. Of his first feature, Burnett explained, “You don’t necessarily win battles; you survive.” Restored and remastered by UCLA Film & Television Archive, Milestone Films, and the Criterion Collection. Restoration supervised by Ross Lipman and Jillian Borders in consultation with Charles Burnett. 

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Apr
3
7:00 PM19:00

I Wrote a Script - Now What?

If you're curious about next steps you can take with your screenplay or pilot, join Chicago Writer/Director/Producer Patrick Webb to learn what to do with your script. This workshop will cover plotting your next draft or rewrite, seeking professional feedback, producing and filming your own project, seeking management and representation, and taking your project out on spec.

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Business of Film: Sustainability Now! Summit + Expo
Mar
27
6:00 PM18:00

Business of Film: Sustainability Now! Summit + Expo

Sustainability Now! Summit - A Business of film event

Date: Thursday, March 27
Time: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Presented by: Chicago Film Office, IFA Chicago, Chicago Department of Environment, Ecofixr, and One Earth Collective

As climate crises challenge our industry, our planet, and our communities, sustainable filmmaking is no longer optional. Join us for an inspiring evening packed with affordable, actionable steps to make a difference.

Discover the environmental and community impact of your work, hear from leaders like the Environmental Media Association, Local 600, and more, and experience cutting-edge clean energy tech demos paving the way to eliminate diesel generators. The event will conclude with tasty treats and a chance to connect with like-minded creators.

Let’s set the standard for a greener, more resilient filmmaking industry—right here in Chicago.

register now

Be on the watch for more information, including participating organizations and keynote speakers

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Mar
24
6:30 PM18:30

Chicago Screenwriter Meetup

Please note (from Andrea who hosts this event): the kind folks at The Long Room have let me know that March 24th is a part of their Do Good fundraising events, and 20% of all bar sales from 6-10pm will go to the Chicago Abortion Fund. While I am excited to support this cause, I wanted to be transparent about where a portion of your dollars will be going by purchasing drinks at this event. There is no programming happening that night and it will feel like a normal night at their bar.

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The Patrick Lives On Film Showcase & Fundraiser
Mar
22
6:00 PM18:00

The Patrick Lives On Film Showcase & Fundraiser

PATRICK LIVES ON is a group of dedicated individuals committed to fostering community well-being through the power of storytelling and film.

The Patrick Lives On Annual Film Showcase and Fundraiser brings together community members and corporate partners to celebrate the power of storytelling, raise awareness, and drive meaningful conversations that promote social responsibility and collective action.

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Pixquid Film Pop-Up Series, Vol. 2: Latinas In Film, Co-hosted with IFA Chicago, CAFF, and Secret Sauce Marketing
Mar
21
6:00 PM18:00

Pixquid Film Pop-Up Series, Vol. 2: Latinas In Film, Co-hosted with IFA Chicago, CAFF, and Secret Sauce Marketing

You're invited to celebrate the Women's History Month and the 41th Anniversary of the Chicago Latino Film Festival!

​Pixquid, IFA Chicago Latino Film Festival, CAFF (Chicago Alliance of Film Festivals), and Secret Sauce Marketing are partnering up to host this unique screening program, featuring a selection of short films by Latina filmmakers and artists followed by an intimate talkback and discussion with filmmakers in attendance.

​​The event includes:

​​6p  Reception

​​6:30p  Screening of short films and music videos produced by Latina filmmakers and artists (to be announced)

​​7:30p Talkback with filmmakers, raffle drawing, and networking

​​This event is free to IFA members (check your member portal for the code), and registration is required.

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Lawyers for the Creative Arts Event: Ins & Outs of Commercial Landlord-Tenant Law
Mar
12
12:00 PM12:00

Lawyers for the Creative Arts Event: Ins & Outs of Commercial Landlord-Tenant Law

Are you engaged in a commercial lease for your arts business? Do you lease or sublease space to other artists or organizations?  

Learn how to navigate commercial landlord-tenant relationships, lease terms and best practices in Illinois, and how to negotiate during this information program with Neva Wagner of Perkins Coie LLP. You’ll gain actionable tactics, information on when you need to get support from an attorney, plus, we’ll take questions following the presentation. 

 

About Perkins Coie LLP: 

Perkins Coie is a leading international law firm that is known for providing high-value, strategic solutions and extraordinary client service on matters vital to our clients’ success. With more than 1,200 lawyers in offices across the United States and Asia, we provide a full array of corporate, commercial litigation, intellectual property and regulatory legal advice to a broad range of clients, including many of the world’s most innovative companies and industry leaders as well as public and not-for-profit organizations.

Learn more at https://www.perkinscoie.com/en/

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IFA CHICAGO & SAG-AFTRA CHICAGO'S: AT THE TABLE - Broken Sinclair
Mar
3
6:00 PM18:00

IFA CHICAGO & SAG-AFTRA CHICAGO'S: AT THE TABLE - Broken Sinclair

Join us for our series, At The Table, in partnership with SAG-AFTRA Chicago, for a table read of the script: Broken Sinclair

Broken Sinclair was born empty – no blood, no guts, no feelings – just the hollow shell of a child walking around looking outwardly like any other awkward kid, trying to be normal. But this goal is made harder - not by the bullies at school, or by his Bowie-worshipping hover-mom and his neglectful, ninja-star-throwing dad, but by the relentless attention of Leigh, a nerdy sci-fi-loving girl at school who decides she wants to be Broken’s friend. When a mysterious collector of oddities offers his strapped-for-cash parents ten million dollars for Broken, he doesn’t mind. But when Broken later accidentally makes Leigh cry, he promises to go to her birthday party the following week, which complicates his prior commitment to the Collector.  What follows is a misadventure in which impossible obstacles and mad scientists push Broken towards making a choice between letting the momentum of the world sift him into oblivion - or choosing to show up for someone who cares about him, even if it means the humiliation and pain that come along with the act of caring back.

This event is open to IFA Members and SAG-AFTRA invitees only. See below for membership details, or reach out to us at info@ifachicago.org

 
 
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Script Night! February 27th
Feb
27
6:30 PM18:30

Script Night! February 27th

  • IFA Chicago at Cinespace Studios (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Script Night! is a bi-monthly workshop which gives screenwriters and filmmakers a chance to connect, and provide feedback on scripts in development. In February, Script Night! will be hosted at The IFA Chicago Hub, Cinespace Studios. Scripts are due February 6th.

Sign up to share your script (30 page maximum), or volunteer to read selected scripts before attending. Up to five scripts will be selected for feedback. Everyone who registers will be given access to the scripts 1-2 weeks in advance, to read and fill out the response forms ahead of time.

Participants are *not* required to have their own script, but are asked to read the selected scripts and provide feedback via an online coverage sheet. (Instructions will be included when sent out.) Scripts are due by 11:59pm CST on February 6th. Please submit your script using this Google Form. **Please note you are also required to RSVP for the event, using the registration button below.**

Script Night! Moderators are IFA Members, Jennifer McMurtry, and Bish.

Questions? Email events@ifachicago.org

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Business of Film: IFA Chicago and Arts Alliance Illinois Present: Creative Worker Resources
Feb
20
6:00 PM18:00

Business of Film: IFA Chicago and Arts Alliance Illinois Present: Creative Worker Resources

Come to IFA Chicago on February 20th, for a special Business of Film event that tackles different resources for the creative worker in Illinois.

IFA Members and fellow creatives will be introduced to a handful of presentations and multiple possible sources of financial support, as well as methods, literacy, and navigation of funding.

Scheduled Speakers are:

- Elsa Hiltner, Lawyers for the Creative Arts

- Tonya Cody-Robinson, Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership

- Laura Trejo, DCASE

- scaleLIT (speaker TBD)

This event is free to attend, but space is limited. Please register as soon as possible to secure your spot! Once the event is SOLD OUT, you will not be able to register. If you are interested in volunteering, please complete our Volunteer Intake Form.

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I Agree With You - An IFA Chicago Fiscal Sponsorship Film
Feb
2
11:00 AM11:00

I Agree With You - An IFA Chicago Fiscal Sponsorship Film

Local film professor and IFA Chicago member, John Otterbacher, presents a screening and discussion of indie feature film, I AGREE WITH YOU (2025): After canceling plans with friends, Hector and Penny begin a game of role-play that threatens to undo their relationship. 

Ever wondered how independent films are made? Or maybe you’re an aspiring filmmaker or student looking for strategies to take filmmaking to the next level. Gain insight into producing an ultra low budget feature, from the producers and filmmakers who made one.  

Join Professor O and team for a screening and talk back with Q&A (thoughtful questions encouraged)!

Cast and crew members will be in attendance!

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Jan
23
to Feb 1

Sundance Film Festival

Key Dates

Mark your calendar with the important dates below.

  • Sundance Film Festival: January 23–February 2, 2025

    • First Half: January 23–28, 2025

    • Second Half: January 29–February 2, 2025

  • Ticket Selection for Packageholders Begins: January 14, 2025

  • Single Film Ticket Sale Begins: January 16, 2025

  • Online Festival Screenings: January 30–February 2, 2025* 

*Dates may vary for Sundance Industry Office and Sundance Press Office members.

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MAGIC HOUR 2024
Dec
5
6:00 PM18:00

MAGIC HOUR 2024

Join fellow film professionals and fans for an exciting evening of entertainment, silent auctions, food, and networking with the who's who in Chicago's film and television scene!

Announcing IFA’s Creative Vision Award Recipient: The Bear and Chicago's Local Crew!

Both on screen and behind the scenes, The Bear beautifully captures the spirit of resilience, creativity, and grit. Chicago's local crew members, artisans, and professionals' dedication and craftsmanship have contributed to the show’s success and IFA Chicago is celebrating their hard work that has long defined our city’s film and television community. Emmy Award winning Director of Photography Andrew Wehde and Emmy Nominated Production Designer Merje Veski will accept the award on behalf of the crew. Previous winners include Governor JB Pritzker, the Illinois Film Office, and Alexander Pissios. 

Magic Hour brings together Chicago’s creative and civic leaders to support Chicago's independent filmmakers and storytellers. This event is titled creatively after the filmmaking term magic hour - the time of day just after sunset and just before sunrise, when the warmest colors are produced!

Announcing IFA Chicago’s Breakthrough Voice Award Honoree: Dewayne Perkins

Dewayne Perkins is a queer Chicago born and raised writer/comedian. He was recently named one of Deadline’s Favorite Movie Performances of 2023 for his role in The Blackening. He is an EMMY, NAACP IMAGE, WGA, and GLAAD Award-nominated writer, producer, actor, and comedian who has steadily built his comedic portfolio over the years. A true multi-hyphenate, Perkins has emerged as one of the most-watched Black queer creatives in film and television. Dewayne’s work demonstrates an exceptional level of creative quality and storytelling integrity that is competitive within the national film landscape. Previous winners include Minhal Baig and McKenzie Chinn.

Join us at the stylish CineCity Studios for an evening of dancing and celebration. With food and drink from Beyond Catering, event design from Fierce Productions, and dancing to the hottest DJ beats - it's an evening you don't want to miss. This year, our popular Silent Auction will only be available at the event itself. Individuals must be present to bid and win.

IFA Chicago members get 50% off the general admission price! Member tickets are limited - get yours by logging into the member portal now.

And don’t forget about our Silent Auction!

These unique and fabulous items are only available at Magic Hour, and you must be present to win.

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Script Night! November 21st
Nov
21
6:30 PM18:30

Script Night! November 21st

Script Night! is a bi-monthly workshop which gives screenwriters and filmmakers a chance to connect, and provide feedback on scripts in development. In November, Script Night! will be hosted at The IFA Chicago Hub, Cinespace Studios. Scripts are due November 6th.

Sign up to share your script (30 page maximum), or volunteer to read selected scripts before attending. Up to five scripts will be selected for feedback. Everyone who registers will be given access to the scripts 1-2 weeks in advance, to read and fill out the response forms ahead of time.

Participants are *not* required to have their own script, but are asked to read the selected scripts and provide feedback via an online coverage sheet. (Instructions will be included when sent out.) Scripts are due by 11:59pm CST on November 6th. Please submit your script using this Google Form. **Please note you are also required to RSVP for the event, using the registration button below.**

Script Night! Moderators are IFA Members, Jennifer McMurtry and Bish, and Jon Knecht.

Questions? Email events@ifachicago.org

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