The annual Roger Ebert's Overlooked Film Festival is held every April in Champaign at the historic Virginia Theatre. All films are selected by the noted film critic himself, and are often accompanied by lively panel discussions with the movies’ stars, directors and producers. 217-244-0552, www.ebertfest.com


Hollywood glamour isn't reserved for LA alone. Illinois has its share of cinematic glitz, from film festivals attended by big-name stars to movies shooting on location throughout the state. See the events and news below to find out where you can get a glimpse of Illinois movie magic.

ILLINOIS FILM EVENTS

The Midwest Independent Film Festival is the nation's only film festival solely dedicated to the Midwest filmmaker, presenting audiences with regionally produced independent cinema every first Tuesday of the month at Landmark Century Centre Cinema, 2828 North Clark in Chicago. This year-round film festival sits proudly at the center of the independent film scene in Chicago and the Midwest and is dedicated to celebrating and strengthening that community. www.midwestfilm.com

The Black Earth Film Festival is presented September 18-20 in beautiful and historic downtown Galesburg, Illinois. Black Earth seeks to present the best in independent feature, documentary, short and animated films in a unique and entertaining festival. www.blackearthfest.com

The Illinois International Film Festival will be held September 20-22 in St. Charles and is dedicated to celebrating the art and entertainment of film in all its forms. Through screenings and associated events, the festival aims to present a wide spectrum of filmmaking - feature films, documentaries, animation, short films, experimental student work, big budget, micro budget and more. www.illinoisinternationalfilmfestival.com

The dazzling Chicago International Film Festival returns to the Windy City from October 16-29. See a selection of movies from both big studios and independent filmmakers at theaters around the city. www.chicagofilmfestival.org

Naperville Independent Film Festival will be held this year September 24-27. For more information, visit the web site. www.naperfilm.org

"Privilege and Poverty" is the theme of the 3rd Oak Park International Film Festival held at the Oak Park Public Library from September 20-21. There are some 15 screenings of short and narrative films and panel discussions, including one on the fest's theme by distinguished local women in cinema. www.oakparkfilm.com

See some of the best movies made for and by kids from around the world at the Chicago International Children's Film Festival , presented October 23 – November 2 at Facets Multi-Media. Last year the festival screened more than 200 animated and live action films from 40 different countries. www.cicff.org

MOVIE NEWS YOU CAN USE

At the Illinois Film Office site (www.commerce.state.il.us/dceo/Bureaus/Film) you can find the latest Illinois movie news, tips on how to break into the biz and helpful links to industry resources.

Curious about casting calls? Wondering where the hottest stars are filming on location in Chicago right now? Go to the Chicago Film Office web site (www.cityofchicago.org/filmoffice) and get the scoop on how you can experience a slice of Hollywood while you're in town.