Welcome to the Chicago Southland International Film Festival, enhancing the rich tradition of the vibrant arts and cultural community at Governors State University with a showcase of global cinematic excellence.
UPCOMING SCREENINGS
CSIFF Youth Film Summer Camp 2026
June 15–17, June 22–24, June 29–July 1
Give your student the opportunity to step into the exciting world of filmmaking! The CSIFF Youth Film Summer Camp is a hands-on, three-week experience designed for students ages 12–15 who are ready to bring their creativity to life on screen.
From idea to final cut, participants will take a film through every stage of production—story development, scriptwriting, filming, and editing—while working alongside media professionals and using real production tools and techniques. Every student plays an active role in creating an original short film in a fun, collaborative environment that builds confidence and real-world skills.
Camp Dates: June 15–17, June 22–24, June 29–July 1
Time: Monday–Wednesday, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Location: Governors State University
Tuition: $500
The experience culminates in a special premiere screening, where students will celebrate their work with a red carpet experience, photos, and popcorn alongside family and friends—just like a real film festival!
Spots are limited! Click the button below to register through Eventive and secure your student’s place today.
2026 Chicago Southland International Film Festival
April 15-17, 2027
The Chicago Southland International Film Festival is excited to announce that submissions are officially open for 2027!
We’re looking for bold, creative, and compelling films from storytellers around the world to be part of our next festival, taking place April 15–17, 2027. From powerful short films to captivating feature-length stories, CSIFF celebrates diverse voices and unforgettable cinematic experiences. Selected films will be showcased on the big screen and many will include opportunities for filmmaker Q&As, connecting you directly with engaged audiences.
Whether you're a student filmmaker, emerging creative, or seasoned professional, this is your chance to share your story and be part of an inspiring, community-driven festival.
Ready to submit? Click the button below to enter your film through FilmFreeway and join us for CSIFF 2027!
PAST SCREENINGS
2026 Chicago Southland International Film Festival
The 2026 Chicago Southland International Film Festival has officially wrapped, and what an incredible year it was. Across three unforgettable days, audiences experienced powerful storytelling from around the world, connected with filmmakers during insightful Q&As, and celebrated the art of cinema together here in the Southland.
We’re deeply appreciative of every filmmaker, attendee, volunteer, sponsor, and partner who helped bring this year’s festival to life. Your energy, support, and enthusiasm made CSIFF 2026 something truly special—from the excitement in the theaters to the conversations that continued long after the credits rolled.
Thank you for being part of this year’s journey.
SPECIAL SHOWCASE:
Medaase: A Ghana Public Health Brigade Story
A Fundraiser to Support Governors State University’s
Public Health Brigade
Directed By: Megan Smith & Tiyen Simmons
This special event was an incredible celebration of storytelling, impact, and global connection. We extend our sincere thanks to everyone who joined us in honoring 10 years of Governors State University’s international service-learning efforts. From the powerful world premiere of Medaase: A Ghana Public Health Brigade Story to the engaging post-film Q&A, the evening was filled with inspiration, meaningful dialogue, and unforgettable moments.
We are grateful to all who attended and helped make this event such a resounding success. For those interested in screening the film or learning more, please contact Joshua Young at 708-235-2826 or jyoung4@govst.edu
2026 GovState Student Showcase
The GovState Student Showcase was an inspiring celebration of student creativity and talent! On March 12, 2026 we had an engaging day highlighting the best student films produced at Governors State University. Featuring a diverse lineup of shorts and projects, filmmaker Q&As, and opportunities to connect with fellow students and faculty, the showcase was a must-see event for the GovState community and film enthusiasts alike.
Be sure to follow us on Facebook and Instagram for the latest festival news and announcements.
2025 Chicago Southland International Film Festival
Our 2025 festival has come to a close, and we are filled with gratitude for everyone who made it such an unforgettable experience. This year’s celebration of cinema brought together a powerful lineup of international and local films, inspiring panel discussions, and lively Q&A sessions with talented filmmakers. We are so thankful to our attendees, filmmakers, volunteers, sponsors, and supporters for helping us foster a vibrant and welcoming community. From the excitement of the red carpet to the connections made in every conversation, this festival was truly a celebration of creativity, passion, and storytelling.
Relive the magic of the festival by viewing our highlight video below!
2025 Chicago Southland International Film Festival Highlight Reel
2024 GovState Student Film Showcase
A celebration of Governors State University film students featuring selected short films produced in GovState’s film program.
2024 GovState Student Film Showcase Highlight Reel
BingeFest 2024
August 29, 2024
5:30 p.m. in the F1622 Amphitheater at Governors State University
BingeFest 2024 has officially wrapped, and we want to extend a huge thank you to everyone who came out! It was an incredible evening filled with red carpet moments, engaging film discussions, and, of course, binge-watching some of the best short films from the Chicago Southland International Film Festival. We’re grateful for the support from GSU students and the community, and we hope you enjoyed the pizza, drinks, and exclusive CSIFF swag. Stay tuned for more exciting events, and we can’t wait to see you at the next one!
Summer Showcase: Star Wars Episode I- The Phantom Menace
July 11, 2024
E Lounge in the Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park at Governors State University
Our Summer Showcase featuring "Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace" on July 11, 2024, was a fantastic event! Attendees enjoyed self-guided tours of the Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park, participated in Star Wars trivia, and showed off their best costumes in a spirited contest. The evening concluded with an outdoor screening of the iconic film under the stars.
If you missed it or want to relive the memories, watch the highlight video below!
SPECIAL SHOWCASE: 1948: Creation & Catastrophe
Directed By: Andy Trimlett & Ahlam Muhtaseb
April 25, 2024
4:30 P.M. IN SHERMAN HALL AT GOVERNORS STATE UNIVERSITY
Join us for a powerful partnership between the Chicago Southland International Film Festival and the Office of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging at Governors State University. Together, we're bringing the gripping documentary '1948: Creation & Catastrophe' to campus for an unmissable event commemorating World Day of Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development.
Experience the profound impact of this documentary, featuring personal accounts from Palestinians and Israelis, as we shed light on the global humanitarian crisis in Palestine. This event is your opportunity to engage in a meaningful conversation, gain cultural knowledge, and amplify diverse and marginalized voices.
After the screening, join us for a dynamic cross-cultural dialogue and panel discussion with experts and fellow attendees. This is more than just a film screening—it's a chance to make a difference and be part of a movement toward understanding and change.
View the trailer here.
The Chicago Southland International Film Festival
is proudly produced by
the Digital Learning and Media Design Department
at Governors State University.
Thank You to Our Sponsors
Thank you to these University Departments
for your invaluable support.
School of
Extended Learning
Center for Performing Arts
Disclaimer: Governors State University is an inclusive environment that promotes and encourages critical thinking, fact finding, and development of diverse thinking and conclusions. The thoughts, views, and expressions of rental events and, or those who do not expressly speak on behalf of the university are that of their own, and do not represent the University in any manner.
