On Monday, June 1, 2026 XL Fest announced the continuation of their partnership with AMC Global Media for a second consecutive year, with five new films selected through XL Fest to be a part of “Future of Film: Chicago XL” – a spotlight collection streaming on AMC+ and Sundance Now. This year’s selections, further advance a shared commitment to creating tangible opportunities for independent filmmakers beyond the festival circuit.
Rooted in Chicago and built on the belief that access changes outcomes, XL Fest is committed to investing in talent at every stage of the journey. Through industry programming, educational initiatives, community engagement, and strategic partnerships, the organization continues to create pathways that empower creators, strengthen communities, and ensure that promising voices have the support needed to thrive long after the credits roll.
The latest slate reflects XL Fest’s evolution from a traditional film festival into a year-round engine for creator advancement. More than a showcase, XL is Chicago’s premier film festival, and serves as a pipeline for discovery, development, distribution, and long-term career growth.
By connecting emerging storytellers with industry leaders, strategic resources, mentorship, exhibition opportunities, and distribution partners, XL has established itself as a powerful platform and budding marketplace which aids in cultivating sustainable creative careers.
The five projects featured in “Future of Film: Chicago XL” include:
• Captain Zero — by Z Cher-Aime 3x Telly Award Winner + NAACP Image award nominee
• A Mind of Its Own — by Courtney Randell Telly Award Winner
• Daughters — by Shayron Anita Telly Award Winner
• All In — by Dusan Brown a filmmaker recently recognized by NAACP
• Mama’s Boy – by Jerod Haynes acclaimed actor recently in Scarpetta
It is through this valued partnership with AMC Global Media and the foresight of executives, Naila McKenzie and Nikki Love that help XL Festival in the unwavering commitment to discover Chicago’s next “Rising Stars’.
These Five Films will stream beginning June 1, 2026, highlighting the Juneteenth month with storytelling excellence.
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