The Midwest Film Festival (MFF), a beacon for local filmmakers, welcomes a new Director of Operations, NK Gutiérrez for the 2024 season.
Gutiérrez was publicly announced in her new role in November Best of the Midwest 2023 Awards where he co-hosted the event with the MFF Executive Director, Erica Duffy. During the talk with the attendees, the importance of being present and embracing the messiness and wonder of the creative process was emphasized.
All in attendance felt the importance of the moment as the festival, a staple since 2005, continues to grow, evolve and find success in its current iteration, showcasing the talents of local filmmakers.
Gutiérrez herself brings a strong background in many aspects of the entertainment industry. As an actress and screen presence, her multiple credits include Showtime's; The Chiof NBC Chicago Fire and the 4th row of her success, La Gringa, at the 2022 Puerto Rico International Theater Festival in San Juan. Her short film, The Last New Year, which she wrote, produced and starred in, was critically acclaimed and led to her production company – All Things NK Productions – currently working on the turn TLNY in an episodic series. Gutiérrez's first feature-length documentary, How do you grind?, explores the various cultural celebrations of coffee.
In addition, she has served as an Intimacy Coordinator for films and television series as well as teaching mindful employee care practices in the corporate and non-profit space. Gutiérrez serves as co-chair of the Black Harvest Film Festival, Head of Programming for the XL Festival, and head of the Film Club at Soho House Chicago.
With such an outstanding background, Gutiérrez takes the reins as the first MFF event of the year rolls out Jan. 29 at the Gene Siskel Film Center in downtown Chicago. The festival continues to look forward to all that the new year brings to the table as the festival's daily operations reflect the spirit of their new addition. Already, all monthly screenings will include a Community Spotlight segment, highlighting the work and influence of local industry leaders.
MFF will host quarterly Workforce Workshops for the core resource platform for the film community. And more exciting news is in store for MFF members, stakeholders and fans to be announced in the coming months regarding their offerings.
Reflecting on the bright direction of the MFF and the addition of Gutiérrez, Duffy states, “I am excited for the next stage of growth that the Midwest Film Festival is embarking on. The addition of NK Gutiérrez as director of operations is a major milestone for Journey. Her passion, vision and commitment to community building is inspiring. We are excited for the future and grateful for the support of our community.“
More information about the Midwest Film Festival can be found at midwestfilm.com.
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