Cost: Regular screenings $10, matinee screenings $8 (buy tickets here)

Organizer: Chicago Filmmakers

What to expect: Screenings of approximately 70 films with gay and lesbian themes, with awards for the best.

Why to go: In addition to its features and short films, this year the fest explores new terrain with "Rock Reeling," a music video category recognizing the indie queer-music frontier.

Additional info: Films will be screened at Landmark Century Centre Cinema, Piper's Alley, Center on Halsted, Chicago Filmmakers and Film Row Cinema.

The Opening Night Gala featuring "Breakfast With Scot" takes place November 6 at Piper's Alley (7:30 p.m., $40, $15 film-only). The Closing Night film is "Eleven Minutes," a doc on "Project Runway" season one winner Jay McCarroll (7 p.m. November 16 at Piper's Alley; $40, $15 film-only).

Centerstage Reviewer: Ben Rubenstein