The Chicago International Film Festival is evolving to include a physical media fair in its 2026 event, scheduled for October 14-25. This idea emerged after the success of the Criterion Closet mobile experience last year. Although the mobile version won’t return, the positive reception inspired festival staff to incorporate a new aspect dedicated to physical media.
According to Mimi Plauché, the festival’s artistic director, there is a natural link between watching films in theaters and owning physical copies. This innovation aims to connect audiences with vendors who maintain the tradition of physical media alive. Attendees can participate in roundtable discussions and a swap event for DVDs, Blu-rays, and VHS tapes.
The 2026 festival will also highlight older films alongside new releases. The annual Black Perspectives program features two classics celebrating their 30th anniversaries: Cheryl Dunye’s “The Watermelon Woman” and Stephen Winter’s “Chocolate Babies.” Both directors will engage in discussions at the event.
Marlon Wayans is set to receive a career achievement award for his diverse contributions to film, including comedies and dramatic roles. Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor, starring in “Liz Here Now,” will receive the tour de force award. This biopic revolves around a nanny in 1960s Oakland facing racial tensions.
Ava DuVernay’s Netflix documentary “14th” will offer viewers an early insight into citizenship rights and legal expert discussions.
Plauché encourages guests to approach the festival with an open mind. With decades of memories built, attendees are urged to explore films spontaneously. “Take a chance on something,” says Plauché, citing success stories of movie festival veterans.
The recommended lineup includes:
- “Club Kid” (Oct. 14) – Opening night film starring Jordan Firstman dealing with themes of fatherhood and lifestyle changes.
- “Finding Your Laughter” (Oct. 15) – Documentary exploring improv techniques and relationships, co-directed by Brittany Alsot.
- “All of a Sudden” (Oct. 16 and 17) – A film between France and Japan focusing on elder care, directed by Ryusuke Hamaguchi.
- “Tender Loving Care” (Oct. 17 and 25) – Mike Leigh’s latest and possibly last film, exploring social structures and comedy.
- “The Echo Chamber” (Oct. 20) – Italian film from Bernardo Bertolucci’s unproduced script, featuring Luca Marinelli and Alicia Vikander.
- “The Liberation” (Oct. 23) – Inspired by director Guy Nattiv’s grandmother, starring Carrie Coon and Tracy Letts.
- “Behemoth!” (Oct. 25) – Closing night film by Tony Gilroy, centered on music composition, featuring Pedro Pascal.