Since its founding in 1972, the Film Center of the School of the Art institute has distinguished itself as a renowned presenter of motion picture art in Chicago.

One of the largest and most comprehensive programs of its kind in the country, the Film Center presents premieres of new American and foreign films, revivals of classics, retrospectives, independent productions, and festivals of international scope. It also features personal appearances by prominent filmmakers, critics, actors, and historians.

Continuing with the Film Center's long-standing mission of presenting significant world cinema in a non-commercial context that sets aesthetic, critical and entertainment standards, the Gene Siskel Film Center will exhibit a range of carefully curated film art while educating audiences, and setting film in a historical and cultural context through courses, lectures, guest appearances, panel discussions, and publications.

On June 1, 2001, the Film Center started presenting films in its new location, the most state-of-the-art movie facility in the Midwest. The Film Center started screening films in both of its theaters, representing an increase in the Film Center s present programming. In November 2001, the Film Center started to present films seven days a week. Over 100 programs are presented every month.