The Gene Siskel Film Center of the School of the Art Institute of Chicago began in 1972 and since that time, it has been home to several cutting edge “film festivals that celebrate diverse voices and international cultures…”  One of those innovative festivals includes the upcoming Chicago European Union Film Festival (CEUFF), now celebrating its 20th year, beginning March 3 through March 30.

Programming Co-Director Barbara Scharres says the experimental festival’s initial committee was comprised of various EU diplomats in Chicago as well as representatives from an array of cultural institutions such as the Goethe Institute, and the Italian and French Cultural Institutes.  “Changing times,” Sharres added, “diminished consular budgets, and diminished full-scale diplomatic presence in Chicago has meant that we need to look to other possibilities for support.  I must emphasize that we still have some terrific partners among the full consulates and cultural institutes.”