**Celebrating Women Directors at the Chicago Film Festival**
In anticipation of the upcoming Chicago Film Festival in 2024, it’s worth reflecting on a significant moment in the festival’s history that took place 50 years ago. Films by Women/Chicago ’74 was a groundbreaking event that showcased the work of women directors, challenging the industry norms and shining a light on the contributions of female filmmakers.
The festival was the brainchild of film critic Gene Siskel, who was inspired by a women’s film festival he attended in Washington, D.C. Siskel, along with Patricia Erens and B. Ruby Rich, organized the event, which featured over 70 short and feature films by women. The festival aimed to celebrate the creativity and talent of women filmmakers and provide a platform for their voices to be heard.
As we approach the 50th anniversary of Films by Women/Chicago ’74, the Gene Siskel Film Center, Northwestern’s Block Cinema, and Doc Films at the University of Chicago are gearing up to host a series of screenings and events to commemorate this milestone. While the programming may be smaller in scale than the original festival, it continues to honor the festival’s revolutionary vision and the enduring impact of women filmmakers on the industry.
One of the highlights of the upcoming festival is a screening of Agnès Varda’s lesser-known film Lions Love (. . . and Lies) (1969), which explores the Hollywood film industry and traditional filmmaking practices. The film serves as a reminder of Varda’s unique perspective and innovative storytelling style.
In addition to Varda’s work, the festival will feature a 35-millimeter restoration of Shirley Clarke’s groundbreaking film The Cool World (1963), which follows a Harlem teenager’s quest for leadership in his gang. The film is set against an iconic jazz soundtrack and remains a powerful portrayal of urban life and youth culture.
Politics and social issues are central themes in many of the films being showcased at the festival. Sarah Maldoror’s Sambizanga (1972), for example, focuses on a liberation movement in Angola while maintaining a strong narrative structure that engages viewers on a personal level.
The festival will also highlight lesser-known works, such as Mireille Dansereau’s Dream Life (1972) and Mai Zetterling’s The Girls (1968), offering audiences a diverse selection of films that challenge traditional gender roles and storytelling conventions.
As part of the festival programming, Michelle Citron’s experimental documentary Daughter Rite (1980) will be screened, exploring the complex relationship between mother and daughter. The film bridges the gap between traditional documentary filmmaking and more experimental storytelling techniques.
The festival will also feature a series of screenings at Doc Films, focusing on films that embody the spirit of the original festival. From South Korean experimental filmmaker Han Ok-hee to Ukrainian filmmaker Kira Muratova, the lineup showcases a diverse range of voices and perspectives from around the world.
In addition to film screenings, the festival will include discussions and presentations by filmmakers and scholars, providing audiences with a deeper understanding of the creative process and the challenges faced by women in the industry.
Overall, the Women Directors Showcase at the Chicago Film Festival 2024 promises to be a thought-provoking and inspiring event that celebrates the achievements of women filmmakers and highlights the importance of diversity and inclusion in the film industry. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the groundbreaking work of these talented directors and join the conversation about the future of cinema.
