Film events: Chicago's best movies and fests

Some of the latest and greatest movies to hit the festival circuit arrive in the Midwest during the Chicago International Film Festival, which typically presents a lineup of around 100 dramas, documentaries, comedies and foreign films, plus 60 short film programs. In addition to CIFF's home base at AMC Newcity 14, the fest offers viewing opportunities across the city, with screenings at the Music Box Theatre, the Gene Siskel Film Center and more. Learn about other programming on the Chicago International Film Festival website.

Now in its 31st year, the Gene Siskel Film Center's annual showcase of stories celebrating the Black experience takes place from November 7-16. As usual, there's also a series of robust short film programs, accompanied by panels and workshops. This year's film lineup is yet-to-be-announced. Visit the Black Harvest Film Festival website for a forthcoming schedule of screenings and ticketing options.

Founded in 1981 and organized by Chicago Filmmakers, Reeling is the second-oldest LGBTQ film festival in the U.S., featuring a lineup of features, shorts and documentaries highlighting the diversity of queer stories and filmmakers from around the world. The fest will show dozens of feature and short films this year in a mixture of in-person and virtual screenings. Screenings run from September 19–28 at Landmark Century Centre Cinemas (2828 N. Clark St) and Chicago Filmmakers (1326 W. Hollywood Ave). For a full schedule of films and other events, visit the festival's website.

Watch independent and experimental films from local and international filmmakers during this weeklong film fest at Hyde Park's Harper Theater & Gene Siskel Film Center. After the credits roll, join nightly afterparties and live concerts. See the festival's website for a full schedule.

This annual celebration of scary films returns to the Music Box Theatre for a monthlong marathon of frightening, thrilling and chilling movies. Catch screenings of films like Addams Family Values, Let The Right One In, Bride of Frankenstein and many others. Notice some holes in the schedule? More films are yet-to-be-announced, and they're sure to be some doozies. You can see a full lineup here.