Ebertfest Will Return for One Final Year In a bittersweet announcement, the organizers of Ebertfest, the iconic film festival founded by legendary critic Roger Ebert, have revealed that the event will return for one final year in 2023. The news comes after earlier indications that the festival might be on indefinite hiatus, leaving cinephiles and Ebert's devoted fans anxious about the fate of this cherished annual tradition. Ebertfest, also known as the Roger Ebert Film Festival, has been a beloved fixture in the world of independent and art-house cinema for over two decades. Ebert, who passed away in 2013, was a visionary and passionate champion of films that often flew under the mainstream radar, and the festival he created was a reflection of his unwavering commitment to showcasing the diverse, thought-provoking, and sometimes challenging works that he championed throughout his storied career. Since its inception in 1999, Ebertfest has been held annually in Champaign, Illinois, Ebert's hometown, and has attracted film lovers, industry professionals, and cinematic luminaries from around the globe. The festival has served as a platform for the appreciation and celebration of both classic and contemporary films, with Ebert himself often introducing the screenings and leading insightful discussions with filmmakers and audiences. The decision to hold one final edition of Ebertfest in 2023 comes after a period of uncertainty and speculation about the festival's future. Earlier this year, the organizers had announced that the event was, at best, on hiatus, leading many to worry that this cherished tradition had come to an end. However, the latest announcement has reignited hope among Ebert's devoted fans and the larger film community. "We are thrilled to be able to bring Ebertfest back for one final year," said Chaz Ebert, Roger's wife and a driving force behind the festival. "This event has been a labor of love for all of us who have been involved, and we wanted to give it the sendoff it deserves. Roger would be so proud to see how his vision has inspired and brought together film lovers from around the world." The 2023 edition of Ebertfest will take place from April 19th to April 22nd, marking the festival's 25th anniversary. While the specific programming details have not yet been announced, attendees can expect the same high-quality selection of films, insightful discussions, and celebratory atmosphere that has made Ebertfest such a cherished event over the years. The decision to make 2023 the final year for Ebertfest is a bittersweet one, but it also speaks to the enduring legacy and impact of Roger Ebert's work. Throughout his career, Ebert championed the power of cinema to inspire, challenge, and connect people from all walks of life. The festival that bears his name has been a testament to this vision, providing a platform for filmmakers and audiences to engage with the medium in a deeply meaningful way. "Ebertfest has always been about more than just watching movies," said Nate Kohn, the festival's director. "It's about celebrating the art of cinema, fostering discussions, and creating a community of passionate cinephiles. While we're saddened to see it come to an end, we're grateful for the opportunity to give it one final, unforgettable edition." For many attendees, Ebertfest has been a cherished annual pilgrimage, a chance to immerse themselves in the world of independent and art-house cinema, and to honor Ebert's enduring legacy. The news of its impending conclusion has elicited a wave of nostalgia and bittersweet emotions from those who have been part of the festival's rich history. "Ebertfest has been a constant in my life for the past two decades," said longtime attendee Sarah Janssen. "It's where I discovered some of my all-time favorite films, met like-minded cinephiles, and felt a profound connection to the power of storytelling. Knowing that this will be the final year is truly heartbreaking, but I'm grateful for the memories and the opportunity to be part of this incredible community one last time." As Ebertfest prepares to take its final bow, the film community is already reflecting on the festival's immense impact and the lasting influence of Roger Ebert's vision. The event has not only introduced countless viewers to remarkable films they might have otherwise missed, but it has also served as a hub for critical discourse, artistic exploration, and the celebration of the medium that Ebert loved so dearly. "Ebertfest has been a beacon of hope and inspiration for filmmakers and film lovers alike," said acclaimed director Ava DuVernay, who has participated in the festival multiple times. "Roger Ebert's passion and vision for cinema have lived on through this event, and its legacy will continue to inspire generations of storytellers and audiences. While we'll miss the annual pilgrimage to Champaign, the spirit of Ebertfest will always endure." As the curtain prepares to fall on Ebertfest, the organizers and attendees are determined to make the 2023 edition a truly unforgettable celebration of the festival's history and the enduring impact of Roger Ebert's legacy. From the carefully curated film selections to the thought-provoking discussions and the sense of community that has defined the event, the final Ebertfest promises to be a fitting tribute to the man who inspired it all.