Reeling opens with a splash

Reeling31: Chicago’s LGBT International Film Festival kicked off its opening-night festivities Nov. 7 at the Music Box Theatre with a screening of G.B.F. The movie centers around a high school dealing with catty cliques (whose leaders want a G.B.F., or gay best friend) and gay prom problems. Several of the stars turned up to walk the red carpet, including Paul Iacono, Molly Tarlov and Andrea Bowen.

In support of the festival there was a strong showing of actors from films running later in the week, such as LeRoy McClain from The Happy Sad, Trent Ford from Burning Blue and Sean Paul Lockhart from Truth.

An afterparty and Q&A took place at Lakeview’s Laugh Factory, where comedians entertained the audience until the late-night hours.

Through Nov. 14, the festival continues with such highlights as Sing-a-Long Victor/Victoria with comic Bruce Vilanch and a transgender comedy concert entitled Ian Harvie Superhero.

For a complete schedule, visit www.reelingfilmfestival.org.

Photos and text by Jerry Nunn