West Cook News

The Oak Park, Illinois Film Festival is now accepting submissions for its upcoming event, scheduled to begin on Thursday, September 12. The festival will kick off with a celebration of Oak Park’s connection to Hollywood at The Lake Theatre (1022 Lake St.), featuring a red carpet and gala event alongside a screening of a new edition of “The Abyss.” The film stars Oak Park River Forest High School alumna Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio and Ed Harris. “The Abyss” was written and directed by Academy Award winner James Cameron.

On Saturday, September 14, the festival will showcase local talent with special screenings and a panel discussion at the Madison Street Theater (1010 Madison St.). Starting at 10 a.m., the event will include screenings of shorts, animations, documentaries, student films, and more. The festival welcomes movies of various genres and lengths that have local connections through cast or crew members from Oak Park or settings within the Village. Awards will be distributed across multiple categories.

The entry deadline for the festival is Wednesday, July 31. A discount is available for early bird entries submitted by Sunday, June 30. All entries must be submitted through the festival’s Film Freeway page.

For more information about the Oak Park, Illinois Film Festival, including awards, rules, and deadlines, visit https://www.opilff.org/. The festival is organized and produced by a committee of volunteers. Those interested in supporting can email team@opilff.org.

Oak Park is located nine miles west of downtown Chicago and offers an urban/suburban lifestyle in a multi-cultural community known for progressive values. It features tree-lined streets, bustling business districts, high-quality public schools, arts and cultural attractions such as Frank Lloyd Wright’s home and studio, and Unity Temple—a UNESCO World Heritage site.