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Chicago Movie Tours & Talks Reviews and Testimonials

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5-Star Movie Experiences Led by a Film Historian

Experience Chicago’s 135-year cinematic legacy through the eyes of a film historian. From the historic grounds of the Midway Plaisance to iconic filming locations throughout the Loop, our Ph.D.-led walking tours and presentations combine scholarly insight with engaging storytelling rarely found in traditional sightseeing tours.

 

Below, explore verified reviews from libraries, cultural institutions, Chicago locals, tourists, and movie lovers who have joined Chicago Movie Tours & Talks for immersive experiences exploring the city’s deep connections to film history, architecture, public art, and popular culture.

Reviews of Walking Tours

average rating is 5 out of 5

Blown away by this tour!

We had such a wonderful time with Kelli as our guide for The Art of Ferris Bueller tour at the Art Institute! We found out about Chicago Movie Tours when we saw Kelli give a lecture about the Blues Brothers for Lectures on Tap, and I was yet again blown away during the Ferris Bueller tour by her depth of knowledge of the intersections between the movie, art, and Chicago history—and her delivery of the presentation throughout the tour, she has clearly thought through everything. Highly recommend if you are a Chicago native or an avid movie fan, it will definitely not disappoint!

Ashley

The Art of Ferris Bueller

Reviewed on Google

June 14, 2026

Art Institute of Chicago, Ferris Bueller, Lectures on Tap, behind the scenes

average rating is 5 out of 5

An immersive experience

I sincerely recommend Kelli and Chicago Movie Tours for group events. It was fascinating to hear all the information Kelli had gathered to present in an organized and yet comfortable way. As we toured the Art Institute of Chicago we were given tidbits of background information which led to more in-depth remarks, which prompted questions and discussion. It was an immersive experience I thoroughly enjoyed.

Christine

The Art of Ferris Bueller

Verified • chicagomovietours.com

May 19, 2026

private tour, walking tour, women's group, Art Institute of Chicago, Ferris Bueller

average rating is 5 out of 5

Oz tour is a must-do

An exceptional tour. I did the Oz and dark side of Hollywood tour and Kelli was smart, fun and a great guide. Must do, especially if you’re in the Lincoln park area.

Jason

The Wizard of Oz and Dark Hollywood in Chicago

Reviewed on TripAdvisor

May 3, 2026

silent film, gangster movies, public art, architecture, film comedy

Reviews of Film History Talks

average rating is 5 out of 5

Such a polished, eloquent presentation

Kelli is clearly deeply experienced in teaching remotely. The script was delivered naturally and with great poise; the tech all worked perfectly; the explanations, the images, the sound were all excellent.

Zoom Guest

Still Waters, Sudden Death: Chicago’s Deadliest Disaster Onscreen

Verified Host Review • Winnetka-Northfield Public Library

July 28, 2026

SS Eastland, documentary film, narrative television, Chicago maritime history, oral history

average rating is 5 out of 5

My favorite Lectures on Tap speaker!

Dr. Marshall was wonderful! She did an excellent job of covering a lot of material in a short amount of time. I think she has been my favorite speaker I have attended though Lectures on Tap!

Lectures on Tap Attendee

Beyond the Blues Brothers

Verified Host Review • Lectures on Tap

May 20, 2026

The Blues Brothers, in-person talk, behind the scenes, Chicago film history

average rating is 5 out of 5

None of us wanted this talk to end

This presentation was outstanding. It was like none of us wanted it to end and people were smiling from start to finish. Thank you so much!

Comedy history fan

Comedy in Chicago: The Marx Brothers and Bob Newhart

Verified Host Review • Parker Life

May 6, 2026

classic hollywood, film comedy, public art

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