2025 Chicago Critics Film Festival Preview- 5 Must See Movies
This year marks the 12th edition of the Chicago Critics Film Festival—and the 11th for yours truly. After taking a hiatus last year, it’s hard to put into words just how much it means to be back at the historic Music Box Theatre and once again part of a cinema community that welcomes everyone with open arms.
From the start, I’ve said this festival is a major highlight for Chicago, bringing a slice of Sundance, SXSW, Slamdance, and more to a city that deserves its vibrant celebration of independent cinema. And while every year feels like the best yet, 2024 might just top them all. Each edition brings bigger movies, guests, and crowds—and that’s where AMovieGuy.com comes in, helping you navigate the lineup with five can’t-miss films.
The festival kicks off Friday, May 2nd, with Jay Duplass’ award-winning The Baltamorons, and runs through Thursday, May 8th, closing with the Sundance hit A Little Prayer, featuring star Jane Levy in attendance. But it’s the gems in between that often shine the brightest. Here are five films you shouldn’t miss:
1. TWINLESS
Starring: Dylan O’Brien, James Sweeney
Directed by: James Sweeney
Screening: Saturday, May 3rd, 6:30 PM
Opening night is always a must-attend, but I’m often just as intrigued by what screens the next day. This year, it’s Twinless, a standout from director/star James Sweeney. He and Dylan O’Brien will be in attendance, and the premise alone is enough to pique your interest: two men, both grieving the loss of their twin siblings, meet in a support group and form an unexpected bond. It’s a tender, heartfelt story that might sound overly sweet on paper, but the Chicago Critics Fest has a knack for selecting films that avoid clichés. Twinless promises to leave audiences smiling.
2. 40 ACRES
Starring: Danielle Deadwyler, Kataem O’Connor, Michael Greyeyes
Directed by: R.T. Thorne
Screening: Sunday, May 4th, 9:30 PM
Post-apocalyptic films may hit a little too close to home these days, but they still draw us in, and 40 Acres looks especially compelling. Set in the aftermath of plagues and wars, it follows survivors navigating a fractured world. Think The Purge meets It Comes at Night. Danielle Deadwyler (The Harder They Fall) headlines, continuing her streak of powerhouse performances. It’s the debut feature from R.T. Thorne, and even the trailer pulses with tension. The Chicago Critics Fest has long championed genre films, and this one looks like a thriller that will linger long after the credits roll.
3. SORRY, BABY
Starring/Directed by: Eva Victor
Screening: Monday, May 5th, 7:00 PM
RogerEbert.com’s Brian Tallerico called Sorry, Baby one of the best films from Sundance—not just this year, but the last few. That’s high praise, and it’s easy to see why. Eva Victor directs and stars in this poignant exploration of a woman’s life through loss, love, and laughter. The Chicago Critics Fest always finds a way to break your heart in the best possible way, and Sorry, Baby looks ready to deliver. It’s a must-see for anyone who loves smart, emotionally rich storytelling—and you’ll want to be able to say you saw it here first.
4. FANTASY LIFE
Starring: Amanda Peet, Matthew Shear, Alessandro Nivola
Directed by: Matthew Shear
Screening: Tuesday, May 6th, 7:15 PM
Fantasy Life is my most anticipated film of the festival—not only because Amanda Peet is earning early raves, but because it harkens back to the kind of adult comedies and dramas we don’t see enough of anymore. Think James L. Brooks or Rob Reiner: stories about flawed adults dealing with real issues like depression, infidelity, and family tension, all with wit and insight. With a strong ensemble and mature storytelling, Fantasy Life could be one of the true sleepers of the fest. I’ll be front and center for this one.
5. DESERT ROAD
Starring: Kristine Froseth, Max Mattern, Ryan Hurst
Directed by: Shannon Triplett
Screening: Thursday, May 8th, 5:00 PM
Few films capture the spirit of indie horror quite like Desert Road. A young woman finds herself trapped on a seemingly endless dirt road, caught in a terrifying loop with no escape in sight. The setup is simple, but the execution looks chilling. Writer-director Shannon Triplett makes her debut here, and it’s the kind of stripped-down, cerebral horror that the Chicago Critics Fest has embraced over the years. If you’re a fan of smart, unsettling genre films, this one should be at the top of your list.
Final Thoughts:
Whether you’re attending for the premieres, the special guests, or the thrill of discovering something new, the 12th Chicago Critics Film Festival has something for every kind of movie lover. These five picks are just a start. See you at the Music Box.
