In 2026, the Chicago International Film Festival will introduce a physical media fair from Oct. 14-25. This idea emerged after the success of last year’s mobile Criterion Closet, a modified truck version of the DVD closet located at Criterion’s New York offices. While not returning this year, its popularity inspired the festival’s innovation for 2026.
The festival seeks to connect audiences with vendors who support physical media. Filmgoers relish exploring physical media and attending theaters; this complements modern film festival dynamics. “There is a lot of overlap between going to a theater to see a film and actually owning the physical object,” said Mimi Plauché, the festival’s artistic director.
This new feature includes roundtable discussions and swaps where participants can trade DVDs, Blu-rays, and VHS tapes. It’s an experimental addition, gauging audience reactions for potential future inclusion, according to Plauché.
Alongside contemporary films, the festival highlights older pieces. This year, Black Perspectives features two foundational classics of queer Black cinema celebrating their 30th anniversary: Cheryl Dunye’s “The Watermelon Woman” and Stephen Winter’s “Chocolate Babies.” Both directors will attend for discussions. Engaging events include an evening with Marlon Wayans on Oct. 19, honoring his career achievements.
Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor will receive an award at the premiere of “Liz Here Now,” depicting a nanny against racial tensions in 1960s Oakland. Ava DuVernay will preview her Netflix documentary “14th,” exploring the 14th Amendment with scholars and experts.
Plauché advocates a sense of discovery at the festival. “I love when members tell me, ‘Mimi, I remember a film I saw here 30 years ago.’ That level of engagement is impactful.” She encourages attendees to explore unfamiliar titles, recounting a board member’s memorable day attending four films.
Highlighted films include:
- “Club Kid” (Oct. 14): The opening night film, featuring Jordan Firstman as a club promoter facing life changes upon discovering he has a child. The film debuts in theaters in November.
- “Finding Your Laughter” (Oct. 15): A documentary about Chicago comedian Arlieta Hall, who uses improv to assist her father with Alzheimer’s. Co-directed with Brittany Alsot.
- “All of a Sudden” (Oct. 16 and 17): Directed by Ryusuke Hamaguchi, it examines humanistic elder care between France and Japan. Releases in theaters in November.
- “Tender Loving Care” (Oct. 17 and 25): Mike Leigh’s film marks a full-circle moment, mimicking his 1972 debut at the festival. Releases in theaters in December.
- “The Echo Chamber” (Oct. 20): Based on an unproduced script by Bernardo Bertolucci, this film involves a music producer’s complex relationships, featuring Luca Marinelli and Alicia Vikander.
- “The Liberation” (Oct. 23): Starring Carrie Coon as a mother engaging with a cult, inspired by director Guy Nattiv’s grandmother, and features Tracy Letts.
- “Behemoth!” (Oct. 25): Closing night film by Tony Gilroy about a celebrated cellist, Pedro Pascal’s character explores his musical journey, also starring Olivia Wilde and Will Arnett.