Welcome to the Chicago Southland International Film Festival, enhancing the rich tradition of the vibrant arts and cultural community at Governors State University with a showcase of global cinematic excellence.
UPCOMING SCREENINGS
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2026 Chicago Southland International Film Festival
Virtual April 12-19, 2026
The in-person Chicago Southland International Film Festival has come to a close, and we want to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who joined us April 9–11, 2026. From incredible films and inspiring filmmaker Q&As to red carpet moments and community celebration, it was truly an unforgettable experience.
Missed the in-person festival or want to watch the films again? You can still be part of the celebration! Stream select films from the comfort of your home during ourÌý from April 12-19, 2026 on Eventive.
Visit our for more information about ticketing, , and the .
Be sure to follow us on and for the latest festival news and announcements.
We are committed to accessibility for all guests.
If you need ADA accommodations, please contact our Audience Liaison, Suzanne Patterson, at 708-534-4393 or spatterson3@govst.edu. We will do our best to accommodate your needs.
PAST SCREENINGS
SPECIAL SHOWCASE:
Medaase: A Ghana Public Health Brigade Story
A Fundraiser to Support Governors State University’s
Public Health Brigade
Directed By: Megan Smith & Tiyen Simmons
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ÌýThis special event was an incredible celebration of storytelling, impact, and global connection. We extend our sincere thanks to everyone who joined us in honoring 10 years of Governors State University’s international service-learning efforts. From the powerful world premiere of Medaase: A Ghana Public Health Brigade Story to the engaging post-film Q&A, the evening was filled with inspiration, meaningful dialogue, and unforgettable moments.Ìý
We are grateful to all who attended and helped make this event such a resounding success. For those interested in screening the film or learning more, please contact Joshua Young at 708-235-2826 orÌýjyoung4@govst.edu
2026 91³Ô¹Ï Student Showcase
The 91³Ô¹Ï Student Showcase was an inspiring celebration of student creativity and talent! On March 12, 2026 we had an engaging day highlighting the best student films produced at Governors State University. Featuring a diverse lineup of shorts and projects, filmmaker Q&As, and opportunities to connect with fellow students and faculty, the showcase was a must-see event for the 91³Ô¹Ï community and film enthusiasts alike.
Be sure to follow us onÌýÌýandÌýÌýfor the latest festival news and announcements.
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2025 Chicago Southland International Film Festival
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Our 2025 festival has come to a close, and we are filled with gratitude for everyone who made it such an unforgettable experience. This year’s celebration of cinema brought together a powerful lineup of international and local films, inspiring panel discussions, and lively Q&A sessions with talented filmmakers. We are so thankful to our attendees, filmmakers, volunteers, sponsors, and supporters for helping us foster a vibrant and welcoming community. From the excitement of the red carpet to the connections made in every conversation, this festival was truly a celebration of creativity, passion, and storytelling.
Relive the magic of the festival by viewing our highlight video below!
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2025 Chicago Southland International Film Festival Highlight Reel
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2024 91³Ô¹Ï Student Film Showcase
A celebration of Governors State University film students featuring selected short films produced in 91³Ô¹Ï’s film program.
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2024 91³Ô¹Ï Student Film Showcase Highlight Reel
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BingeFest 2024
August 29, 2024
5:30 p.m. in the F1622 Amphitheater at Governors State University
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BingeFest 2024 has officially wrapped, and we want to extend a huge thank you to everyone who came out! It was an incredible evening filled with red carpet moments, engaging film discussions, and, of course, binge-watching some of the best short films from the Chicago Southland International Film Festival. We’re grateful for the support from GSU students and the community, and we hope you enjoyed the pizza, drinks, and exclusive CSIFF swag. Stay tuned for more exciting events, and we can’t wait to see you at the next one!
Summer Showcase: Star Wars Episode I- The Phantom Menace
July 11, 2024
E Lounge in the Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park at Governors State University
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Our Summer Showcase featuring "Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace" on July 11, 2024, was a fantastic event! Attendees enjoyed self-guided tours of the Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park, participated in Star Wars trivia, and showed off their best costumes in a spirited contest. The evening concluded with an outdoor screening of the iconic film under the stars.
If you missed it or want to relive the memories, watch the highlight video below!
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SPECIAL SHOWCASE: 1948: Creation & Catastrophe
Directed By: Andy Trimlett & Ahlam Muhtaseb
April 25, 2024
4:30 P.M. IN SHERMAN HALL AT GOVERNORS STATE UNIVERSITY
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Join us for a powerful partnership between the Chicago Southland International Film Festival and the Office of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging at Governors State University. Together, we're bringing the gripping documentary '1948: Creation & Catastrophe' to campus for an unmissable event commemorating World Day of Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development.
Experience the profound impact of this documentary, featuring personal accounts from Palestinians and Israelis, as we shed light on the global humanitarian crisis in Palestine. This event is your opportunity to engage in a meaningful conversation, gain cultural knowledge, and amplify diverse and marginalized voices.
After the screening, join us for a dynamic cross-cultural dialogue and panel discussion with experts and fellow attendees. This is more than just a film screening—it's a chance to make a difference and be part of a movement toward understanding and change.
View the trailer
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The Chicago Southland International Film Festival
Ìýis proudly produced by
theÌýDigital Learning and Media Design Department
at Governors State University.
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Thank You to Our Sponsors
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Thank you to these University Departments
Ìýfor your invaluable support.
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Disclaimer:ÌýGovernors State University is an inclusive environment that promotes and encourages critical thinking, fact finding, and development of diverse thinking and conclusions. The thoughts, views, and expressions of rental events and, or those who do not expressly speak on behalf of the university are that of their own, and do not represent the University in any manner.
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