"With these young women putting their bodies and minds on the line in the fight for justice, looking at their personal lives is just as meaningful." - Arionne Nettles, Chicago Reader

"What makes Bonsu and Gambrell's resolve so rousing is that they openly embrace the steep uphill battle they face." - Courtney Small, POV Magazine

"A tribute to the Black women who have been the bedrock of their families and communities, and its debut at film festivals is a landmark moment to cherish and celebrate.” - Stephen Michael Brown, Silver Screen Capture

Meet Janaé Bonsu and Bella Gambrell, two fierce abolitionists whose upbringing and experiences shape their activism and views on Black liberation. Through their lens, UNAPOLOGETIC provides an inside look into the ongoing movement work that transformed Chicago, from the police murder of Rekia Boyd to the election of mayor Lori Lightfoot. (Kartemquin Films)

Festivals, Awards & Nominations

Official Selection - Black Harvest Film Festival; Blackstar Film Festival; DOC NYC; Cleveland International Film Festival; Frameline Film Festival; Outfest Fusion
Winner - Jury Prize, Image + Nation, Montreal LGBTQ Film Festival; Breakthrough Award, Athena Film Festival; Groundbreaker Award, Cleveland International Film Festival

For the safety and comfort of our audience members and employees, we will have the following safety protocols in place for at least the first two weeks after we reopen:

  • Masks required by all staff and patrons at all times

  • Staggered showtimes and ample time between shows to mitigate crowds

  • Ticket pre-orders for films encouraged to reduce lines 

  • Hand sanitizer and disposable face masks available for patrons

  • Only 50% of our tickets will be available for sale so that we can ensure a safe movie-going experience

  • In light of the latest health updates from the city of Chicago, and in accordance with the School of the Art Institute, we will not be selling concessions nor allowing outside food or drink for at least the first two weeks of business. 

  • If you are feeling unwell or have a fever, please stay home and stream films until you feel better

Note: protocols are subject to change, per new or evolving information.