The Chicago Underground NFP exhibits the most genre-defying, groundbreaking, and unique films emerging from underground scenes via our yearly festival: the Chicago Underground Film Festival (CUFF). We welcome independent artists sidelined by the more typical, market-driven fests and champion their unconventional approach to form and subject matter - all while growing a diverse audience committed to supporting and embracing their work.

As the longest-running underground film festival in the world, CUFF continues to be one of the most innovative and accessible platforms for those interested in making, experiencing, and discussing underground art. In addition to our screenings, we facilitate this through panel discussions, workshops, filmmaker Q&A’s, and nightly after-parties.

As Roger Ebert put it:“What you get for your money is not just admission to the films but admission to a subculture.”

We champion work that breaks rules, takes risks, and confronts audiences—formally, politically, or personally. If your film refuses the safe option, we want to see it. Underground isn’t a genre; it’s making and showing films on your own terms.

What we’re looking for
Beyond formulas. Beyond market trends. From ~2,000 submissions, we select ~100 films that stay with you. Experimental, narrative, documentary, hybrid, animation—we value impact over category. If your work challenges conventions, it may find a home here.

Who attends CUFF
Our audiences participate. CUFF draws experimental filmmakers, independent creators, art students, musicians, cinephiles, and cultural instigators from Chicago and beyond. The atmosphere is energetic, smart, and interactive.

Screenings + spaces
Most screenings are at The Harper Theater and The Gene Siskel Film Center—proper venues with top-tier projection and sound. When the work calls for it, we get weird: recently we paired Chicago House documentaries with a dance party. Velvet curtain or concrete floor—your film gets the setting it deserves.

The CUFF experience
CUFF extends beyond the screen: late-night events, music performances, and conversations that matter. Past performers include RP Boo, Lady D, Art Gray Noizz Quintet, Pedestrian Deposit, Brett Naucke, Fire-Toolz, and The Handsome Family. Q&As turn into real discussion. Panels spark ideas and connections. You’ll leave with new collaborators and a sharper sense of purpose.

Selected filmmaker benefits
- Screening fee
- Two all-access passes
- Filmmaker hospitality space
- Invitations to all events, panels, and gatherings
- Professional technical checks & exhibition on calibrated projection/sound
- Very limited, need-based travel support when possible
- Meaningful networking & press outreach/listings (coverage not guaranteed)
- Select events are documented; highlights shared when available
- Festival laurels

If you attend in person, we aim to host a Q&A (block/program permitting) with an engaged audience.

Key dates (2026)
- Selections announced: July 22, 2026
- Info packet sent: one week later (tech specs & delivery deadlines, screening time/venue, Q&A details, pass pickup, travel tips, Chicago insider guide)
- Festival dates (tentative): September 23–27, 2026

Promoting your screening

We don’t just show your film—we help bring the right people in: social media assets for selected films (templates plus show-specific graphics when feasible), Chicago press contacts, local tips/venue maps, and cross-promotion with fellow CUFF filmmakers. It’s a scene, not a solo show.

Accessibility
Our primary venues are fully accessible (ramps, elevators, restrooms). Assisted listening devices are available. ASL interpretation is available with advance notice, subject to scheduling. For other/pop-up spaces, we publish access notes or provide alternatives. Other needs? Email access@cuff.org and we’ll do our best.
Submission details
- Preferred screeners: Vimeo or YouTube (private links welcome)
- Non-English films must be subtitled in English
- DCP required for exhibition (we can connect you with an affordable partner)
- We also support 16mm and, in some cases, 35mm—talk to us early (by arrangement)
- Frame rate: 24 fps preferred; 25 fps accepted with advance notice

Selection process
Every film is watched—multiple programmers view submissions before final decisions. We pick what hits, what lingers, what refuses to be ignored. If selected, you’ll be notified by July 22, 2026. If not, you’ll still hear from us. We can’t offer individual feedback, but we value every submission.

Keep us posted
You’ll get a confirmation email after submitting. If anything changes—premiere status, online release, passwords—drop us a note.