Class Overview Adult Classes Youth Classes and Camps Workforce Development Registration and Policies
Screenings and Events Past Screenings and Events Masterwork: Industry Conversations Networking Events Seminars and Panels Picture Restart
Become a Member Our Community Volunteer Board Membership
Funding and Sponsorships Productions We Sponsor Apply for Sponsorship Productions We Fund Apply for Funding [IN]SIGHT Magazine Community Calendar
Accessibility & Location Our Mission and History Our Team Our Supporters Our Statement of Support
Filmmaking Classes, Film Screenings, Camps, Film Funding
 
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Year-Round Classes in Digital Filmmaking, Directing, Cinematography, Documentary, Screenwriting, and more! Taught by professional filmmakers and university professors, our classes help students develop fundamental skills in filmmaking through in-depth discussions, hands-on demonstrations, and creative collaboration.

ADULT CLASSES & WORKSHOPS

 

WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT

Now Accepting Applications for the Spring 2025 Training Cycle!

We are looking for residents of Illinois who are passionate about film and are committed to building a long-term career in Illinois movie production. In addition, most production assistant roles require regular access to a car. This program is open to all applicants who meet the criteria below and is especially intended to support workforce diversity in terms of race, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, and socioeconomic status.

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SCREENINGS & EVENTS

 
 

YOUTH FILMMAKING CAMPS

Hands-on and collaborative, these all-encompassing camps give budding filmmakers a crash-course in filmmaking that teaches a wide range of skills, from script to screen.

Featured
2025 TEEN FILMMAKING CAMP (Ages 13-17) | IN-PERSON
2025 YOUTH FILMMAKING CAMP (Ages 9 - 13) | IN-PERSON
 
 

The Picture Restart Series: 16mm Films from the Picture Start Collection

 
 

Animated Breakdowns: six Films Drawn Beyond the Limits of the frame

March 15th, 2025

 
 

Apply Now! We Accept submissions on a rolling basis.

CHICAGO SEEN is a free opportunity for Chicago-based films and filmmakers (past and present) to screen at our Firehouse Cinema, Chicago’s Film Community Headquarters at 1326 W. Hollywood Avenue. Celebrating local cinema!

 

[IN]SIGHT MAGAZINE by the Chicago Filmmakers Community

Featured
A PROFILE ON ACTOR CEMRE PAKSOY
A PROFILE ON ACTOR CEMRE PAKSOY
GUILLOTINE by Sonnie Wooden
GUILLOTINE by Sonnie Wooden
REELING ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT: Austin Bunn | By Colleen O'Doherty
REELING ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT: Austin Bunn | By Colleen O'Doherty
SIGN UP FOR CUSTOMIZED EMAILS
SIGN UP FOR CUSTOMIZED EMAILS
TETSUO: THE IRON MAN
TETSUO: THE IRON MAN

 

OUR COMMUNITY

 
 
 

 
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We Accept Donations to Chicago Filmmakers year-round | Support Independent Cinema!

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THANK YOU TO OUR COMMUNITY

We are a hub for Film Lovers and Filmmakers throughout Chicagoland and the world; connecting the global movie scene at our Edgewater home base. Our doors are open to you; building Chicago’s most inclusive film community, where thousands of artists have launched their careers and found their first great ideas. Come visit our Firehouse Cinema, participate in our screenings, classes, and workshops, get assistance with your important socially-relevant projects, and share your visionary work. Help support our vital mission by sharing, participating, giving, volunteering, and partnering with us as we celebrate 50 years!