Hollywood is touching down in the city again — and this time, Robert Townsend is making sure Chicago creatives get the full experience. The legendary director, actor, and cultural architect is bringing a full weekend of film screenings, comedy, education and community support through his Pop-Up Film Festival, benefiting the Westside Branch of the NAACP and The Answer Inc., Autism Awareness & Support Agency.
And now… he’s adding even more heat.
Master Class: Learn From a Legend
On Saturday, December 6th, Townsend is hosting an exclusive Master Class at Columbia College Chicago (1104 S. Wabash). From 9:00–10:30AM, attendees get real Hollywood game — directing gems, production insight, storytelling tactics, and lessons Townsend says you won’t find anywhere else. If you’re a filmmaker, actor, content creator, or just a student of the craft, this is gold.
Game Night & Bid Whist Energy
Later that night, the festival flips into Game Night at Columbia College and runs straight into a Bid Whist Tournament at Film Row Cinema. It’s a full cultural mash-up: film enthusiasts, students, OGs, creatives, and community members all under one roof turning up for a good cause.
Film Screenings for the Culture
Saturday’s lineup includes:
11AM — The Spook Who Sat by the Door 3PM — The Five Heartbeats Both at Film Row Cinema.
Sunday’s screenings hit the Chicago Cultural Center:
11AM — The Meteor Man 2PM — Power Book IV: Force (episode directed by Townsend, plus a Q&A)
Comedy to Close the Weekend Out
On December 7th @ 7:30PM, The Comedy Bar hosts a stand-up show featuring Just Nesh, Barry Brewer, and Calvin Evans, with Lil Rel Howery and LaRoyce Hawkins holding down hosting duties. Chicago talent + a Chicago legend + a Chicago crowd? It’s guaranteed to go crazy.
Bringing Hollywood to Chicago — With Purpose
Townsend’s partnership with Creative Cypher, Columbia College, the NAACP, What’s Funny Comedy Festival, and The Answer Inc. isn’t just about entertainment. It’s about exposure, education, and supporting families and communities dealing with autism while uplifting Chicago’s creative ecosystem.
If you’ve been waiting for a sign to tap into the film world or support a meaningful cultural event — this is it.
🎟️ Tickets available now at EventNoire.com
