Cut it out
If your eyes are starting to glaze over from watching too much new fall TV on your 19-inch Sony, perhaps it’s time to make the jump to the big screen. The 42nd Annual Chicago International Film Festival showcases nearly 100 feature films, as well as 40 shorts and 15 documentaries. Top picks for the weekend include “A Guide to Recognizing Your Saints” with Robert Downey Jr. and “Steel City” with John Heard. Friday through Oct. 19. Single tickets: $7-$11. Special events: $12-$25. Full schedule and locations: chicagofilmfestival.com. 312-332-3456.
It’s a scream
Soon-to-be blockbusters and A-list stars not your thing? You can always fall back on a good slasher flick. The Chicago Horror Film Festival sets the scene for Halloween with 35 horror films from around the country, such as documentary “National Vampire,” splatter flick “The Slaughter” and med school thriller “Unrest.” Includes director and actor appearances, live music and more. 6 p.m. Friday; noon Saturday-Sunday. $12 per day, $30 three-day passes. Portage Theater, 4050 N. Milwaukee Ave. 866-691-2457.
Give peace a chance
Lay down your arms and break out your love beads for the Peace Museum’s 25th anniversary reception. Two new exhibits open to mark the occasion: “Shared Dreams,” featuring collaborative works from Cuban and U.S. artists, and “Dreams in a Box,” showcasing highlights from exhibits throughout the museum’s 25-year history. Includes music, refreshments and a chance to browse the other exhibits, “Images Against War,” “Whispers from Baghdad” and “Aesop’s Art for Peace.” 5 p.m. Friday. Free with general admission, $5. Peace Museum, 100 N. Central Park Ave. Garfield Park Gold Dome. 773-638-6450.
T.G.I.F.
As if you needed another excuse for afterwork drinks on a Friday. The Museum of Contemporary Art’s monthly First Fridays party coincides with the opening of the latest “12×12 New Artists/New Work” exhibit, which showcases work from a different Chicago-based artist each month. October’s featured talent: Christine Tarkowski. First Fridays at the MCA include appetizers, a cash bar, access to exhibits, and music and performances. 6 p.m. Friday. $7-$15. Tickets: ticketweb.com. MCA, 220 E. Chicago Ave. 312-280-2660.
Full moon fever
Think you’ve got stellar stamina? Put your party potential to the test at Sanza: Carnival of the Moon, a nine-hour invite-only bash featuring 17 bands and DJs, more than 40 artists, tarot card readings, a silent auction, a fashion show, food and drinks. If you’re still standing after a full day of revelry, hit the afterparty from 11 p.m. to 2 a.m. Proceeds benefit refugees in Darfur and the Democratic Republic of Congo through the International Rescue Committee. 1 p.m. Saturday. $20-$25. Invitations and tickets: inspiringothers.org. High Concept Laboratories, 1401 W. Wabansia Ave. 312-799-9427.
Did you hear the one about . . .
You could do without the tired cracks from your co-workers and the groaners from Grandpa, but some jokes really never do get old. Not convinced? Settle in for a night of classic Second City scenes at “We Shall Overcompensate.” The multicultural revue mixes improv bits and new sketches with old favorites that will have you rolling in the aisles all over again. 9 p.m. Saturday. Through Nov. 18. $8-$12. The Second City Skybox, Piper’s Alley, 1608 N. Wells St. 312-337-3992.
It’s a burl(esque) thing
Need to spice up your Saturday evening routine? Sounds like you could use A Night at the Stone Burlesk. The bawdy show pays homage to the infamous, now-shuttered Detroit club Stone Burlesk, with local talents Bit O’Honey, Bloody Belle and Maiden Sacrifice in the spotlight. Pinup films and cigarette girls selling vintage smut DVDs add to the spectacle. Bring fruit and veggies to donate for a chance to win X-rated door prizes. 10:30 p.m. Saturday. $15-$20. Lakeshore Theater, 3175 N. Broadway. 773-472-3492.
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kpratt@tribune.com