CHICAGO UNDERGROUND FILM FESTIVAL
The longest-running underground film festival in the world (est. 1993)
Since 1993, CUFF has been home to unruly, risk-taking cinema. As Roger Ebert said, “What you get for your money is not just admission to the films but admission to a subculture.”
We champion work that breaks rules and refuses the safe option—experimental, narrative, doc, animation, or hybrid. From ~2,000 submissions, ~100 films are chosen for impact, not category.
Festival Dates: Sept 23–27 2026 | Selections Announced: July 22 2026
Venues: The Harper Theater & The Gene Siskel Film Center
Filmmakers receive screening fees, passes, hospitality, and engaged audiences. CUFF extends beyond the screen with Q&As, late-night shows, and parties that connect artists across scenes.
Awards: Jury prizes, Audience Award, Made in Chicago Award.
Submit: Vimeo or YouTube screeners (DCP required for exhibition).CHICAGO UNDERGROUND FILM FESTIVAL
The longest-running underground film festival in the world (est. 1993)
Since 1993, CUFF has been home to unruly, risk-taking cinema. As Roger Ebert said, “What you get for your money is not just admission to the films but admission to a subculture.”
We champion work that breaks rules and refuses the safe option—experimental, narrative, doc, animation, or hybrid. From ~2,000 submissions, ~100 films are chosen for impact, not category.
Festival Dates: Sept 23–27 2026 | Selections Announced: July 22 2026
Venues: The Harper Theater & The Gene Siskel Film Center
Filmmakers receive screening fees, passes, hospitality, and engaged audiences. CUFF extends beyond the screen with Q&As, late-night shows, and parties that connect artists across scenes.
Awards: Jury prizes, Audience Award, Made in Chicago Award.
Submit: Vimeo or YouTube screeners (DCP required for exhibition).

other deadlines this season:

December 10, 2025 Early Bird Deadline
March 25, 2026 Regular Deadline
April 29, 2026 Late Deadline
May 31, 2026 Extended Deadline