The 38th edition of Reeling: The Chicago LGBTQ+ International Film Festival will be held as an online virtual event from Sept. 24-Oct. 4.
Chicago Filmmakers, the presenting organization of Reeling, made the decision to go virtual amid the uncertainty surrounding the reopening of cinemas and an increase in cases of COVID-19 in Chicago.
Festival Director Brenda Webb said, "Many festivals are playing it safe this fall by hosting their events online. We felt that it was the right thing to do to keep our community safe.
"The onset of the pandemic and subsequent shutdown has impacted our ability to hold screenings in person at the Chicago Filmmakers' Firehouse, but it hasn't impacted our ability to come together as a community around the love of cinema. We're excited that this new format presents the opportunity for more filmmakers from around the world to participate in festival Q&As and panels."
Festival attendees may purchase tickets and watch selected films at ReelingFilmFestival.org. The full festival lineup will be announced in August.