CineYouth 2023 Festival Programming
See the next generation of filmmakers. CineYouth 2023 presents 65 short films across 10 programming blocks featuring everything from uproarious comedies to depictions of activism in action to highlights from the Chicagoland area. Plus, CineYouth features two workshops focused on activism in film and creative collaboration through editing, live filmmaker Q&As, and more! Tickets and all events are free and open to the public.
Streaming globally: April 24 – 30
CineYouth 2023 film programs will be available to stream globally on the Chicago International Film Festival streaming platform from Monday, April 24 at 12:00pm CT until Sunday, April 30 at 11:59pm CT unless otherwise noted on the film program’s webpage. Once you press play, you’ll have 72 hours to finish watching the program.
To watch, please visit the program details pages available below. Learn how to stream…
In-Person Screenings & Events: April 21-23
All in-person screenings, workshops, and events took place at Facets, a Chicago-based nonprofit that connects people to independent ideas through transformative cinema.
FACETS
1517 W Fullerton Ave
Chicago, IL, 60614
Get directions >
Virtual Screenings
Virtual Screening
Chicagoland
The exhilarating work of Chicago’s next generation of filmmakers is showcased in this eclectic collection that celebrates the vast array of creative expressions emerging from our city.*
Virtual Screening
Be Seen, Be Heard: Documentary
These documentaries demonstrate that the personal is powerful, and sharing your unique voice and perspective can brighten the world and help make others feel seen.*
Virtual Screening
CineYouth Selections: Captions Available
As part of our ongoing accessibility initiative, we are proud to present this selection of CineYouth films with captions available.
Virtual Screening
Free Verse: Experimental
Cinematic poetry comes to life in this stunning and thought-provoking array of films that break boundaries and inspire creativity.
Virtual Screening
Humor Me
Come experience the joys and absurdities of the world with these lighthearted knee-slappers–sure to make you laugh and delight in their quirky comedic sensibilities!
Virtual Screening
Intertwined: Drama
These powerful dramas from around the world highlight the connections, whether fleeting or lifelong, that impact our lives forever.*
Virtual Screening
It’s Personal
Tender and nuanced, these intimate films reflect on questions of self-discovery, mental health, growth, and healing–along the journey to connecting with one’s true self.
Virtual Screening
Late Night Thrills
Leave the natural world behind and enter a landscape of the supernatural, fantastical, thrilling, and chilling with these genre-bending spooky tales.*
Virtual Screening
Making a Change
Utilizing a variety of styles and genres to deftly explore their sociocultural environments, these young storytellers inspire activism and advocacy with their impactful work.*
Virtual Screening
Playtime: Family Fun!
Come share moments of joy, laughter, and comfort with these vibrant tales about family, friendships, and life–fun for all ages!
Virtual Screening
(Up)Rooted
These emotionally resonant stories explore the complexities of the concept of home, feeling out of place, and the true meaning of belonging.
*Films in this program contain themes or language that may not be suitable for all ages.
Past Workshops
Workshop
Creative Collaboration: An Exploration of Editing Workflow
How do a director and editor collaborate and communicate to bring a film to life? Hear from a director-editor team about the process of editing a feature film together.
Workshop
Making a Change: Creating Impact Through Storytelling
How do the stories we tell have the power to inspire social and cultural change? Join us for a conversation about channeling your passion for self-expression and activism into films that can transform the world.
In-Person Screening & Event Schedule
Friday, April 21
Screening
Closing Night: Chicagoland (encore)
The exhilarating work of Chicago’s next generation of filmmakers is showcased in this eclectic collection that celebrates the vast array of creative expressions emerging from our city.* With open captioned films and a live captioner.
CineYouth Awards Ceremony
Celebrate the winners from this year’s CineYouth Festival at the Awards Ceremony. Categories include Animation, Chicago, Comedy, Documentary, Drama, Experimental, International, Rising Star, and Social Impact awards.
212 W Van Buren St., Suite 400
