“Help Me To Find Kokumo”: A Guide To Beyond Chicago

Key Takeaways

• Beyond Fest expands to Chicago with 30-film lineup
• Opening film "Obsession" sold to Focus Features, May 15 release
• Premiere of "Faces of Death" features Charli XCX, Q&A
• Bob Odenkirk hosts 35mm classic "Pelham One Two Three"
• Free MUBI screenings provide genre variety for Music Box members

Pulse Analysis

Beyond Fest’s move to Chicago marks a strategic push into a major Midwestern market that has long been underserved by genre‑focused festivals. By aligning with MUBI, the event taps into a curated streaming audience while offering in‑theater experiences that streaming alone cannot replicate. The Music Box Theatre, a historic venue, provides the perfect backdrop for 35 mm screenings, reinforcing the festival’s commitment to filmic authenticity and attracting cinephiles who value the tactile qualities of celluloid.

The Chicago lineup balances fresh indie horror, such as Curry Barker’s "Obsession," with high‑profile revivals like Daniel Goldhaber’s "Faces of Death," featuring Charli XCX and a post‑screening panel. Veteran talent, including Bob Odenkirk and RZA, adds star power and draws media attention, while retrospectives—"The Taking of Pelham One Two Three" and a 4K "Speed Racer" restoration—cater to nostalgia‑driven audiences. Free MUBI screenings broaden accessibility, encouraging membership growth for both the theatre and the streaming service.

From a business perspective, the festival diversifies revenue through ticket sales, sponsorships, and ancillary merchandise, while bolstering the Music Box’s off‑season calendar. Successful execution could set a template for future regional expansions, positioning Beyond Fest as a national brand rather than a West‑coast niche. Moreover, the event’s Q&A sessions and filmmaker appearances generate valuable content for post‑event digital distribution, extending audience engagement beyond the four‑day run and reinforcing the festival’s long‑term market relevance.