The 62nd Chicago International Film Festival: Disability in Focus
Introduction
The Chicago International Film Festival, in partnership with UIC, presents a series of disability-inclusive films accompanied by post-screening discussions that explore representations of disability in media. These conversations foster critical dialogue, challenge ableist assumptions, and advance understanding of disability as a vital dimension of human diversity and culture.
Stand Up
Director: Mari Sanders | Runtime: 95 minutes
After a life-changing accident requires her to use a wheelchair, a young woman forms an unexpected connection with an aspiring stand-up comic whose irreverent spirit helps her navigate a new chapter in her life.
Screenings
- Tuesday, October 20, 6:30 p.m.
- Chicago History Museum
- Wednesday, October 21, 5:30 p.m.
- Gene Siskel Film Center
Post-screening discussion: 45 minutes
Scheduled guests: Director Mari Sanders and actor Lucia Zemene
While We Are Here
Director: Reveca Torres | Runtime: 86 minutes
Filmmaker Reveca Torres expands conventional understandings of disability through a creative exploration of the lives and legacies of renowned artists Frida Kahlo, Vincent van Gogh, and Henri Matisse.
Screenings
- Wednesday, October 21, 6:30 p.m.
- Chicago History Museum
- Friday, October 23, 5:15 p.m.
- Gene Siskel Film Center
Post-screening discussion: 45 minutes
Scheduled guest: Director Reveca Torres
Being Heumann
Director: Siân Heder | Runtime: 127 minutes
Set in 1977, the film follows disability rights activist Judy Heumann as she leads the historic 28-day occupation that helped secure federal protections for accessibility and civil rights.
Screening
- Wednesday, October 21, 6:30 p.m.
- Gene Siskel Film Center