Best film programs located in Chicago?

I'm interested in studying film in Chicago and would love to know what the top programs in that area are. Any recommendations? I'm keen on both creative and technical aspects.

Sure, there are quite a few well-regarded film programs in Chicago!

One standout program is the School of Cinematic Arts at DePaul University. Known for providing hands-on experience for students, the curriculum emphasizes understanding film production in both traditional and new forms of media. There's a full spectrum of classes across screenwriting, cinematography, directing, and editing, allowing you to delve deeper into the elements you're interested in.

Another strong program is Columbia College Chicago's Cinema and Television Arts Department. This program gives students the chance to become well-rounded in all areas of filmmaking, from pre-production all the way through post-production. Notably, they offer a couple of concentrations like Film Production and Post-Production and Visual Effects which can be beneficial given your interest in both creative and technical aspects.

If you're interested in more experimental or documentary-style filmmaking, you might want to look into the School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC). They have a well-respected Film, Video, New Media, and Animation (FVNMA) program that leans less commercial and more artistic -- a different approach that might pique your interest.

Lastly, Loyola University also has a film program worth mentioning. They offer a Bachelor of Arts in Film and Digital Media (FDM) where you can specialize within a few tracks including Animation, Film and Television Production, and Screenwriting.

While all these programs have their specialties, it's also worth keeping in mind what you want to get out of a film program - be it industry connections, certain types of internships, or specific faculty members that you're eager to learn from. Hope this helps in your search!