Ok, we just went from being somewhat interested in the first Chicago International Movies and Music fest (March 5-8) to being very excited about it. Why? According to Chicagoist, the event will be capped by the debut of Wilco’s long-awaited live concert film, “Ashes of American Flags,” filmed during the Southern U.S. portion of the band’s 2008 tour. That screening will happen on Monday, March 9 at the Music Box (7:30 p.m. and 10 p.m., $10), but now that we started looking at the Web site, it turns out there are a lot of exciting things going on during the weekend. Things like:
- A March 5 appearance by acclaimed director Lech Kowalski, who screens his “Camera War” with live accompaniment by composer Mimetic
- A live performance from the Dex Romweber Duo (March 7 at the Double Door), with special guest Martin Atkins, who presents his directorial debut, “16 Days in China” (there will also be music at Schubas)
- An exhibition of legendary rock photographer Richard Bellia’s work (March 6 at Th!nkArt Salon, 1530 N. Paulina)
The fest (co-organized by Bulgarian filmmaker Ilko Davidov and M’s frontman Josh Chicoine) kicks off on Wednesday, March 4 with a party at the new St. Paul Cultural Center, 2215 W. North.
