Chicago International Film Fest teases 2026 lineup that includes documentaries on Bob Odenkirk, chef Curtis Duffy

The Chicago International Film Festival returns Oct. 14-25 with a Bob Odenkirk project, spotlight on Michelin-starred Chef Curtis Duffy and anticipated films from Tim Blake Nelson and Martin McDonagh, according to a preview announced on Tuesday.

The full lineup of the 62nd fest, which takes place at venues across the city, will be announced on Sept. 17. Tickets will go on sale Sept. 24, though memberships and early bird passes are now available at chicagofilmfestival.com.

In the meantime, cinephiles can expect to see Illinois native Odenkirk at a screening of Michael LaHale’s “Bob and David Climb Machu Picchu.” The documentary chronicles the “Better Call Saul” star’s adventure with longtime friend and comedic partner David Cross.

Another local star, Curtis Duffy, will be highlighted in the world premiere of Frankie Nasso’s “Ever After,” as part of the festival’s City and State program. The documentary provides insight into the personal and professional journey of the chef, who overcame personal tragedy and launched his Fulton Market restaurant, Ever, to world-class success during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Attendees will also have a chance to see Martin McDonagh’s black comedy, “Wild Horse Nine,” a favorite on this year’s festival circuit. John Malkovich and Sam Rockwell star as CIA agents dispatched to Easter Island amid the 1973 Chilean coup.

For more dramatic fare, moviegoers can make plans to see director Tim Blake Nelson, who will visit to present “The Life and Deaths of Wilson Shedd.” Amanda Seyfried stars as a teacher in an abusive relationship who falls for an inmate while working at a prison.

Other movies announced so far for the fall lineup include Paweł Pawlikowski’s “Fatherland,” a Cannes Best Director winner starring Sandra Hüller; James Gray’s “Paper Tiger,” starring Adam Driver, Miles Teller and Scarlett Johansson; and Spanish director Pedro Almodóvar’s “Bitter Christmas.”