Joelle Velez Will Premiere Short Film CHOKE in Chicago
The local production will debut at the Chicago International Film Festival on October 15.
Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Arthouse
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Filmmaker Joelle Velez will premiere her 15-minute short film CHOKE at the Chicago International Film Festival on October 15 at 5:45pm. The project, which was shot across the city, serves as part of the festival's City and State Shorts program.
Why it matters
The short film explores complex themes of censorship, complicity, and humanity while offering a look at a fictional 24-hour speech ban. A win at the festival would grant the project eligibility for Oscar submission consideration.
The production was completed with a $15,000 budget and features a runtime of 15 minutes. It is one of 60 short films currently scheduled to screen as part of the Chicago International Film Festival lineup.
The players
Joelle Velez
She is a filmmaker who wrote and co-directed the short film CHOKE.
Chicago International Film Festival
This annual event hosts film screenings and competitions that can influence Oscar eligibility.
The details
Written and co-directed by Velez, the film centers on a character named Poppy Sanchez, a marketing executive facing a loyalty test. The project utilized an entirely Chicago-based crew and filmed on location in Albany Park, Humboldt Park, and the South Side.
Timeline
October 15, 2026: The film premieres at 5:45pm at AMC NEWCITY 14.
October 24, 2026: The film screens at noon at the Chicago History Museum.
Industry Dynamics
The festival circuit remains the primary engine for independent filmmakers seeking to elevate their work toward national recognition and prestigious honors. By securing a slot in the City and State Shorts program, Velez aligns her work with the broader industry trend of using regional platforms to launch Oscar-qualifying campaigns.
Chicago residents can view the film at AMC NEWCITY 14 or the Chicago History Museum on the designated screening dates. Tickets are required for entry to both festival venues.
The takeaway
This production highlights how local filmmakers can effectively utilize city-wide resources to create high-impact narratives on a limited budget. Aspiring creators should monitor festival schedules to identify opportunities for regional networking and potential national exposure.
Further reading
For more news on regional cinema, visit the Chicago Arthouse section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Axios.
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