The International Latino Cultural Center of Chicago hosts the Chicago Latino Film Festival from April 16th through April 29th in several theaters around the city. Aiming to promote Latino culture in the United States, the festival features the work of promising filmmakers from Latin America, Portugal, and Spain as well as Latinos living in the United States. The festival places a special emphasis on films that portray examples of the diversity in Latin America and films that challenge Hispanic and Latino stereotypes. According to the festival’s website, it showcases “images of Latino identity by demonstrating through cultural expressions, that Latinos are defined by more than 20 different nationalities and come from diverse racial and social backgrounds.”
In an effort to highlight the importance of the artistic and educational value of films, the Festival is not a competition. However, the most popular feature film throughout the two weeks is presented with the “Audience Choice Award”, and since 1999 the Gloria Lifetime Achievement Award, has recognized individuals and institutions that have contributed to the development of Latino culture.
The list and times of films is available here. Get your picks ready!
In addition, the Chicago Latino Film Festival is looking for volunteers, who will receive free film vouchers. If interested, send an email to volunteer@latinoculturalcenter.org