Reel Short is the city’s premiere showcase of short films and videos produced in Chicago by Chicagoans. The monthly half hour program will play like a small film festival with hopes of connecting upcoming filmmakers with a local television audience.  The show celebrates the city’s energy and can-do spirit by demonstrating the passion, ingenuity and creative depth of Chicago’s independent film community.

Reel Short will screen shorts ranging in style from animation to live action to documentaries, produced by everyone from students to professionals. On each episode we will introduce one of the featured filmmakers who will travel to a different location in the city where they will discuss their project and offer a “behind the scenes” look at the creative process and discuss the craft of making a movie.

Chicago Municipal Television and Reel Short are now accepting submissions. Selections will be broadcast on cable channels 23 and 49 only in the City of Chicago.

Mail your films of 25 minutes or less in MiniDV or DVD to:

Chicago Municipal Television
Attn: Reel Short
33 N. La Salle #1650
Chicago, IL 60602

Please include with your submission:

• the title of your film
• a brief synopsis
• total run time
• your name and contact info
• completed and signed copy of the Film Agreement 
  (this document clarifies the terms of usage. Please review and sign) 

SUBMISSION GUIDELINES:

All submissions must be locally produced—either in Chicago or by a Chicago filmmaker

Filmmakers are responsible for obtaining all the necessary releases for people, music, footage, photos, etc. included in their films. 

Unless agreed upon with the filmmaker, Chicago Municipal Television will not edit any of the materials it receives but reserves the right to refuse broadcast of any film or video that contains defamatory, obscene, unlawful, or objectionable material, or lacks the proper releases.

We ask for the right to air your film free-of-charge for 2 years from the date of the first broadcast.

Screening copies become the property of Chicago Municipal Television (OCC) and will not be returned.

We cannot guarantee to broadcast every film or video, but all submissions will be considered.

Reel Short is broadcast by a not-for-profit municipal organization and thus, NO MONETARY COMPENSATION WILL BE GIVEN FOR THOSE FILMS THAT ARE SELECTED TO AIR.

If we decide to broadcast your film, we will contact you.

For more information, please contact:

caseyclark@cityofchicago.org