CHICAGO– It was a spectacular opening night for the 49th Chicago International Film Festival on October 10th, 2013. Director James Gray (“Two Lovers,” “We Own the Night”) presented his new film, “The Immigrant,” featuring Marion Cotillard and Joaquin Phoenix. Plus on this Opening Night – taking place at the historic Chicago Theatre – there was a tribute to Roger Ebert, who passed away earlier this year.
The Master of Ceremonies was anchorman and producer Bill Kurtis, and he introduced Michael Kutza, Founder and Artistic Director of the Chicago International Film Festival. Kutza then introduced a poignant video tribute to Chicago film critic Roger Ebert, and brought Chaz Ebert – Roger’s wife – to the podium. She gave a heartfelt speech, thanking the City of Chicago and the film community for the outpouring of love for her husband. Then director James Gray made short introductory remarks, before presenting his new film, “The Immigrant.”
HollywoodChicago.com was on the Red Carpet, and photographer Joe Arce – and Senior Writer Patrick McDonald – took these Exclusive Portraits of the 2013 49th Chicago International Film Festival. Click “Next” and “Previous” to scan through the slideshow or jump directly to individual photos with the captioned links below. The first three photos © Joe Arce of Starstruck Foto for HollywoodChicago.com.
- CIFF1: Opening Night! Director James Gray of ‘The Immigrant.’
- CIFF2: Filmmaker Lana Wachowski at the Chicago International Film Festival.
- CIFF3: Rahm Emanuel, Mayor of Chicago, enjoys Opening Night.
- CIFF4: Chicago International Film Festival Opening Night at the iconic Chicago Theatre.
 | By PATRICK McDONALD |