MORRISON, Ill. (May 21, 2026) — The sixth annual Northwest Illinois Film Festival: Shorts-A-Palooza 2026 brought filmmakers, community members and industry advocates together at Morrison Tech for an evening that highlighted the growing influence of film and digital media across Northwest Illinois and the state.
Hosted by the Northwest Illinois Film Office, the free community event featured a curated lineup of independent short films representing a wide range of genres, including documentary, animation, drama, comedy, suspense, science fiction and horror. The festival showcased emerging and established Illinois filmmakers while reinforcing the broader economic role of creative industries within regional development efforts.
“Shorts-A-Palooza is about putting Illinois storytellers on a big screen in their own communities—and reminding people that film is both an artform and an economic driver for our region,” said Gary Camarano, Executive Director of the Northwest Illinois Film Office. “We’re grateful to Morrison Tech, the Illinois Film Office, and every filmmaker and audience member who made this year’s festival such a strong night for independent film.”
The event opened with remarks from Peter Hawley, Director of the Illinois Film Office, who discussed the state’s growing media production activity, noting that Illinois supported approximately $700 million in media projects during the previous year. Hawley also highlighted an upcoming workshop focused on Illinois film incentives, which will be hosted jointly by the Northwest Illinois Film Office and the Illinois Film Office.
Featured screenings represented a cross-section of filmmaking talent from across Illinois. Among the projects highlighted were The Last to Fall from Hero Street, the final installment in the acclaimed Hero Street documentary series by Emmy Award-winning filmmakers Kelly and Tammy Rundle; The Middle Cross, a faith-based dramatic short from Rockford filmmaker Matt Cichella; and Drivin’ Me Looney, the latest animated installment in Michael Cook’s retro-inspired Chucky Chicken series.
Additional entries included suspense, horror, comedy and science fiction projects from both returning and first-time filmmakers, reflecting the breadth of creative work being produced throughout the state.
This year’s festival also introduced a new Public Service Announcement category, expanding the scope of content showcased and underscoring the growing diversity of storytelling formats within independent media production.
“Shorts-A-Palooza continues to showcase the extraordinary talent emerging from our region and across Illinois,” said Camarano. “Our independent filmmakers are building momentum through award-winning features, short films, documentaries and animation projects—and this festival gives audiences a powerful taste of that creativity.”
Organizers said the event continues to strengthen connections between creators, audiences and industry resources while supporting awareness of the economic opportunities associated with film production.
“Film is becoming an important part of our regional economy,” Camarano added. “Events like Shorts-A-Palooza highlight not only the artistic talent in Northwest Illinois, but also the economic opportunities.”
The Northwest Illinois Film Office extended thanks to Morrison Tech, the Illinois Film Office, participating filmmakers and community attendees whose support continues to help build a stronger regional film ecosystem.
About the Northwest Illinois Film Office
The Northwest Illinois Film Office assists film projects with location selection, state film incentives, local regulations and connections to regional crew, talent and supply chains. The organization also supports Illinois filmmakers through promotional efforts and annual events, including the Northwest Illinois Film Festival.
Contact: Gary Camarano, Executive Director
Northwest Illinois Film Office
Office: (815) 772-5247 | Cell: (575) 520-5279
