Exclusive Portrait

CHICAGO – David Dastmalchian is taking the spotlight in his latest role. The in-demand character actor, with vital portrayals in “Suicide Squad,’ “Dune” and “Oppenheimer,” is the lead performer as a 1970s talk show host in the new horror epic “Late Night with the Devil,” co-written/directed by Colin and Cameron Cairnes. In select theaters March 22nd.

CHICAGO – Writer, Director and Actor Emerald Fennell is leading a new revolution of commentary in her feature films. She began with “Promising Young Woman” in 2020 – for which she won an Oscar for Best Original Screenplay – and her follow-up is “Saltburn,” which opened wide last week on November 22nd.

CHICAGO –At the the just wrapped up Fall 2023 Chicago Humanities Festival, a few laughs (and tears) were had at an appearance by comedian Aparna Nancherla. She has a new book entitled “Unreliable Narrator: Me, Myself and the Imposter Syndrome,” which takes readers on the journey of a stand-up comic and essayist who doesn’t feel she belongs doing what she does, but she’s able to express it.

CHICAGO – In the case of this Ginger and Geri, no choice needs to be made because they are one and the same. Geri “Ginger Spice” Halliwell was a member of the best selling female pop group in history, the Spice Girls. She appeared in Downers Grove (Illinois) for her new novel, “Rosie Frost and the Falcon Queen.”

CHICAGO – The stature and talent of actor Matthew Modine has loomed large for nearly two generations. He began his career in his early twenties, and continues to make an impact as he takes on new roles … for instance, that of a social worker in “Hard Miles,” which screened at the 59th Chicago International Film Festival (CIFF).

CHICAGO – That’s a wrap! The 59th Chicago International Film Festival (CIFF) Closing Night is October 22nd, 2023, with “The Bikeriders,” which is set in Chicago and directed by Jeff Nichols (“Mud,” “Take Shelter”), who will make an appearance on behalf of the film. Click CLOSING for info and tickets.

CHICAGO – Writer, Director and Actor Emerald Fennell is leading a new revolution of commentary in her feature films. She began with “Promising Young Woman” in 2020 – for which she won an Oscar for Best Original Screenplay – and her follow-up is “Saltburn,” which screened at the 59th Chicago International Film Festival on October 19th.

CHICAGO – David Dastmalchian’s star is rising rapidly. The actor, who studied locally at DePaul University, brought his new role on film – “Late Night with the Devil” – to the 59th Chicago International Film Festival. A reprise screening will take place on October 19th, 2023. Click LATE NIGHT for info and tickets.

CHICAGO – Michael Shannon is also a film director. The distinctive actor, who has wowed cinema fans with his performances over the years, showcased his directorial debut at the 59th Chicago International Film Festival (CIFF) with “Eric Larue.” Shannon did a master class on directing, walked the Red Carpet and appeared at the film screening.

CHICAGO – As the leaves begin to crunch beneath our feet, the Fall 2023 Chicago Humanities Festival – ongoing since September – will kick into gear in October with an amazing line-up of celebrity and talkback events. For a complete list and guide to the Festival, click CHICAGO HUMANITIES.