Ines Sommer Pro

Ines Sommer is a Chicago-based filmmaker, film programmer, and educator, who is drawn to stories about humans and nature, rituals, politics, rural life, and history. Her films range from observational and character-driven documentaries to essay films, experimental projects, and installations. Her long-form directing credits have included the human rights documentary Beneath the Blindfold (2012); Count Me In (2016), a MacArthur Foundation-supported grassroots democracy documentary that aired on PBS stations across the U.S.; and the award-winning Seasons of Change on Henry's Farm (2019), which follows Midwest farmer Henry Brockman as he tackles the impact of climate change on his sustainable family farm. The Hills (2023) looks at the steel industry's toxic legacy in Chicago and aired on WTTW, Chicago's PBS station. Ines' interest in rural stories continues with The Fair (2025), which is set in a conservative rural community and looks at the spectacle and rituals of an annual county fair. In addition to making films, Ines has long been involved in advocating for regional independent filmmakers and in curating and organizing public programs, including the Doc Chicago conference as well as film series and festivals. Ines teaches fulltime at Northwestern University.