Cinepocalypse Update

As part of global efforts to flatten the curve and slow the spread of COVID-19, we have made the difficult but necessary decision to postpone Cinepocalypse for 2020. We have been monitoring social distancing guidelines in Chicago and in the nation at large, and it’s become clear that regardless of whether the weight of the crisis has been lifted, we would not be able to have the film festival in early June. At best, we would be asking a lot of our community at a time when the country is getting back on track, and at worst, we would be risking the health and safety of our filmmakers, fans, and staff. We’re disappointed that we won’t be able to see you in June, but confident that we will return later this year to shake the rafters of the Music Box with the best audiences in the world.

In the meantime, we will continue to work on building the best and most exciting lineup of films and special events that we possibly can, and will continue to screen submissions from the filmmakers who are the lifeblood of our industry. We’ll update you with our new dates as soon as we have a better idea of when it will be safe to relaunch. Badges that have already been purchased will be valid for our new dates, and refunds will be offered to badge holders who can't attend the rescheduled festival when our new dates are announced. 

If you are in a position to help others during this time of crisis, please consider a donation to the Art-House America campaign to support independent movie theaters, or a membership to the Music Box Theatre. Until then—stay safe and stay well. 

Looking to submit a short or feature film, click here!