Chicago International REEL Shorts Film Festival
Catalog organization: Project Chicago
Compiled by: ExtracurricularHub Editorial Team — editorial policy
Last updated
What Is Chicago International REEL Shorts Film?
Chicago International REEL Shorts is an active independent festival operated by Project Chicago. Its 2026 call is open through an authorized FilmFreeway profile, with in-person screenings scheduled at Chicago Filmmakers on November 13-14. It is not exclusively a high-school program, but pre-college filmmakers can qualify as youth works when the film is shot, directed, and produced by high-school or secondary-school students and any adult involvement is advisory only.
The general short category accepts films under 30 minutes in narrative, documentary, experimental, music-video, and other forms from any country. World and U.S. premieres are not required. Non-English films need English subtitles. The submitter must hold or share copyright in the film and its content. Each FilmFreeway entry covers one film and includes title, type, email/contact information, and a screener; if selected, the filmmaker must provide a downloadable MP4 plus a digital press kit with posters and stills.
Chicago International REEL Shorts Film Key Facts: Cost, Deadline, and Eligibility
| Cost | Varies — see Cost and funding |
|---|---|
| Format | Hybrid |
| Eligibility | Grades 9–12 |
| Listing last updated | August 30, 2026 |
Program details shown here reflect the current catalog record.
Similar Programs You May Like
Explore these related extracurricular opportunities:
- Thai Short Film and Video Festival — Thai Film Foundation / Thai Film Archive
- Palm Springs International ShortFest — Palm Springs International Film Society
- Aspen Shortsfest Youth Jury — Aspen Film
- Virginia Film Festival Film Submissions — Virginia Film Festival, University of Virginia
- Animation Educators Forum Student Animation Showcase — Animation Educators Forum, sponsored by ASIFA-Hollywood
Guides Related to Chicago International REEL Shorts Film
- How to Build a Spike: Turning One Interest into Stand-Out Activities — Admissions officers look for a spike—clear depth in one interest that shows initiative, impact, and growth. Here's
- How to Find Extracurriculars in High School — Find extracurriculars with smart filters, a Find My Fit quiz, and tracking tools—everything you need to stand out
- Ultimate Guide to High-School Extracurriculars for Top Colleges — Learn what admissions officers really look for in extracurriculars, why depth beats breadth, and how to plan
How to Apply to Chicago International REEL Shorts Film
Open the application for Chicago International REEL Shorts Film Festival