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Explore Contagion’s Chicago locations, film history, and eerie parallels to real-world pandemics The Making of Contagion: Chicago as Pandemic Stage Explore Contagion’s Chicago locations, film history, and eerie parallels to real-world pandemics All Talks About Step into the chilling world of Contagion (2011) and discover why Chicago proved the perfect backdrop for this pandemic thriller. In this immersive talk, you'll explore four Chicago-area filming locations through exclusive HD video footage, and experience 3D views of additional sites via Google Maps. Along the way, you’ll hear behind-the-scenes stories about the movie’s Chicago-based production and learn striking ways the real-world COVID-19 pandemic mirrored the making of this haunting film. The hour-long talk also examines Contagion as a narrative and horror movie, highlighting how director Steven Soderbergh uses the city’s landscapes, freezing temperatures, and viral imagery to amplify tension and dread. From ruthless behavior to viral infection, you’ll see how various forms of “coldness” perfectly serve the story and cinematic style. Request Talk

Private Tours Private Tours Private Tours Title Title Private Tours Incorporate a private tour into your city visit, convention program, or senior outing Available Tours Available most weekdays and weekends. Customized tours require two weeks’ notice. Request your preferred date and time! What Is a Private Tour? A guided tour designed for individuals or small groups who prefer a more intimate and tailored experience Ideal for families, convention and reunion attendees, school groups, film clubs, and senior outings. All tours may be booked privately, and Kelli also provides customized options. Private tour pricing starts at $399. Why Book a Private Tour? Exclusive Attention Get the star treatment! Our private tour ensures you receive the guide's full attention, answering all your questions and sharing insider stories about Chicago's rich film history. Flexibility Can't find the perfect time for a public tour? No worries! With a private tour, you choose the date and time that suits your schedule best. Flexibility has never been so cinematic! Personalization Immerse yourself in the glitz and glamour of Chicago's movie history with a private tour! Explore the iconic film locations that fascinate you the most, at your own pace.

Every Wednesday, join us in guessing the Chicago-based movie or television show from one screenshot. Visit our archive to play the ones you missed! One-Shot Wednesday On Wednesdays, guess the Chicago-based movie or television show from one screenshot. Ocean's 11 Only a fraction of Steven Soderburgh's Ocean's 11 filmed in Chicago. The scene below introduces Matt Damon's character, Linus. We see him first riding the 'L,' then walking underneath the tracks, and finally at Emmitt's Pub at 495 N. Milwaukee Ave. Sadly, the Irish pub closed in 2022 . But you can see it onscreen in Oceans 11 , Uncle Buck , Only the Lonely , and most recently, Justified: City Primeval . Welcome to One-Shot Wednesday! Think you’re a Chicago screen buff? On Wednesdays, we post one still from a movie or TV show filmed or set in the Windy City. Your mission? Guess the title! You've already seen this week’s image above. If you're feeling nostalgic, explore the full archive of past challenges to keep the fun rolling. Psst: you're on screenshot: 84 Access Archive

Every Wednesday, join us in guessing the Chicago-based movie or television show from one screenshot. Visit our archive to play the ones you missed! One-Shot Wednesday On Wednesdays, guess the Chicago-based movie or television show from one screenshot. Continental Divide Continental Divide (1981) is lesser-known Chicago movie starring comedian John Belushi. The story follows a Chicago newspaper reporter (Belushi), who travels to the Rockies to interview an eagle researcher (Blair Brown). As they navigate their differences—and the challenges of the wilderness—a romance blossoms. In this scene, Belushi's character (in the background) has made it to the mountains, where he comes face-to-face with a cougar. Most of the mountain scenes, like this one, are filmed in Colorado. But Chicago is on display as well. For instance, Belushi's character works for the Chicago Sun-Times , so several scenes show the interior and exterior of the now-demolished Sun-Times building. Unlike when he acted in The Blues Brothers , "Belushi remained clean and sober" during filming of Continental Divide . "This was a new Belushi, clear-eyed and professional." Unfortunately, the movie didn't fare well. Fans wanted to see Belushi's manic onscreen performances, not a romantic one. Welcome to One-Shot Wednesday! Think you’re a Chicago screen buff? On Wednesdays, we post one still from a movie or TV show filmed or set in the Windy City. Your mission? Guess the title! You've already seen this week’s image above. If you're feeling nostalgic, explore the full archive of past challenges to keep the fun rolling. Psst: you're on screenshot: 84 Access Archive

From “Harry and Tonto” to “The West Wing,” see how two of Chicago's western suburbs have played leading roles onscreen Chicago Suburbs Onscreen: Forest Park and Oak Brook From “Harry and Tonto” to “The West Wing,” see how two of Chicago's western suburbs have played leading roles onscreen All Talks About Step beyond Chicago’s city limits and explore how its western suburbs have quietly starred in film and television. In Forest Park, the historic Altenheim—once a home for elderly German immigrants—was transformed for the movies Harry and Tonto (1974), The Package (1989), and The Babe (1992). See how one location became three very different cinematic worlds. Then, travel to nearby Oak Brook, where The West Wing (1999–2006) filmed a dramatic episode far from Washington, D.C. As we trace the cast and crew’s filming path with HD video, discover local landmarks tied to a former mobster hangout and the Underground Railroad. Led by Kelli Marshall , a PhD and former film professor, this hour-long talk reveals surprising ways Chicago's western suburbs appear onscreen. Request Talk

Yule love it! Unwrap the holiday magic and dive into the world of the Griswold family Holiday Chaos: Behind the Scenes of "National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation" Yule love it! Unwrap the holiday magic and dive into the world of the Griswold family All Talks About Set in the Chicago suburbs, National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation (1989) follows the Griswold family as they attempt to create the perfect traditional Christmas celebration. However, as is usually the case with this fictional family, chaos ensues. Yes, everything that can go wrong does. Have you ever wondered what happened off-camera during the making of this iconic holiday film? Do you know where the movie was shot? Have you noticed the film's ties to Lethal Weapon , Betty Boop, and It's a Wonderful Life? In this Christmas event by Chicago Movie Tours, go behind the scenes of Christmas Vacation and dive into the world of the Griswold family. You'll challenge your knowledge of the movie and discover fun facts that will make you appreciate the film even more. You'll also hear about Chicago's (minor) role in creating the perfect backdrop for the Griswold's holiday misadventures. Request Talk

Upcoming Talks See where Kelli will be speaking next—online and in person. Feb 24, 2026, 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM CST Black Movie History in Chicago: Cinematic Milestones and Sacred Grounds / Orland Park Public Library, 14921 S Ravinia Ave, Orland Park, IL 60462, USA Register Feb 24, 2026, 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM CST Orland Park Public Library, 14921 S Ravinia Ave, Orland Park, IL 60462, USA Explore Black film history in Chicago through select movies and sites that connect them Mar 02, 2026, 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM CST On the Run in Chicago: Behind the Scenes of The Fugitive / Homer Township Public Library District, 14320 W 151st St, Homer Glen, IL 60491, USA Register Mar 02, 2026, 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM CST Homer Township Public Library District, 14320 W 151st St, Homer Glen, IL 60491, USA Uncover how "The Fugitive" blends TV history, cultural ritual, and Chicago’s architectural stage Mar 05, 2026, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM CST Women and Early Cinema in Chicago: Untold Stories Behind the Silent Screen / Naperville Public Library, 3015 Cedar Glade Dr, Naperville, IL 60564, USA Register Mar 05, 2026, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM CST Naperville Public Library, 3015 Cedar Glade Dr, Naperville, IL 60564, USA Explore hidden stories of women who shaped early Chicago cinema, with HD footage of key locations where they lived and worked Mar 11, 2026, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM CDT Countdown to the Oscars: Illinois Winners, Scandalous Moments, and Oscar Bait / Helen Plum Library, 411 S Main St, Lombard, IL 60148, USA Register Mar 11, 2026, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM CDT Helen Plum Library, 411 S Main St, Lombard, IL 60148, USA Celebrate Illinois' Oscar winners, scandalous moments, and "Oscar bait" as you countdown to this year's Academy Awards Apr 16, 2026, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM CDT Private: Chicago and The Wizard of Oz / Skokie Country Club, 500 Washington Ave, Glencoe, IL 60022, USA Learn more Apr 16, 2026, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM CDT Skokie Country Club, 500 Washington Ave, Glencoe, IL 60022, USA Discover Chicago's many connections to the classic children's story "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz" Registration links to dates in the far future may not yet be available. Check back, or subscribe to be notified . Host This Crowd Favorite! How Are Movie Worlds Created? Explore settings, props, actors, costumes, makeup, and lighting Learn More View All Talks

Upcoming Talks See where Kelli will be speaking next—online and in person. Feb 24, 2026, 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM CST Black Movie History in Chicago: Cinematic Milestones and Sacred Grounds / Orland Park Public Library, 14921 S Ravinia Ave, Orland Park, IL 60462, USA Register Feb 24, 2026, 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM CST Orland Park Public Library, 14921 S Ravinia Ave, Orland Park, IL 60462, USA Explore Black film history in Chicago through select movies and sites that connect them Mar 02, 2026, 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM CST On the Run in Chicago: Behind the Scenes of The Fugitive / Homer Township Public Library District, 14320 W 151st St, Homer Glen, IL 60491, USA Register Mar 02, 2026, 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM CST Homer Township Public Library District, 14320 W 151st St, Homer Glen, IL 60491, USA Uncover how "The Fugitive" blends TV history, cultural ritual, and Chicago’s architectural stage Mar 05, 2026, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM CST Women and Early Cinema in Chicago: Untold Stories Behind the Silent Screen / Naperville Public Library, 3015 Cedar Glade Dr, Naperville, IL 60564, USA Register Mar 05, 2026, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM CST Naperville Public Library, 3015 Cedar Glade Dr, Naperville, IL 60564, USA Explore hidden stories of women who shaped early Chicago cinema, with HD footage of key locations where they lived and worked Mar 11, 2026, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM CDT Countdown to the Oscars: Illinois Winners, Scandalous Moments, and Oscar Bait / Helen Plum Library, 411 S Main St, Lombard, IL 60148, USA Register Mar 11, 2026, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM CDT Helen Plum Library, 411 S Main St, Lombard, IL 60148, USA Celebrate Illinois' Oscar winners, scandalous moments, and "Oscar bait" as you countdown to this year's Academy Awards Apr 16, 2026, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM CDT Private: Chicago and The Wizard of Oz / Skokie Country Club, 500 Washington Ave, Glencoe, IL 60022, USA Learn more Apr 16, 2026, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM CDT Skokie Country Club, 500 Washington Ave, Glencoe, IL 60022, USA Discover Chicago's many connections to the classic children's story "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz" Registration links to dates in the far future may not yet be available. Check back, or subscribe to be notified . Host This Crowd Favorite! Chicago, Christmas Movies, and Class Consider what three Chicago-based Christmas movies say about social class Learn More View All Talks

The general waiver of liability informs Chicago Movie Tours' guests of potential risks involved with a walking tour. Waiver of Liability Summary The waiver below informs guests of potential risks involved with a walking tour, allows guests to choose to incur risks voluntarily, secures an agreement from guests to hold the tour company harmless, and seeks permission from guests to be photographed, videotaped, and/or audio taped for marketing purposes. General Waiver of Liability, Assumption of Risk, Indemnity Agreement, and Media Release OVERVIEW This waiver informs guests of potential risks involved with a walking tour, allows guests to choose to incur risks voluntarily, secures an agreement from guests to hold the tour company harmless, and seeks permission from guests to be photographed, videotaped, and/or audio taped. WAIVER OF LIABILITY In consideration of being permitted to participate in any way in Chicago Movie Tours’ walking tour (hereinafter called the “Tour”), I, for myself, my heirs, personal representatives and assigns, do hereby release, waive, discharge, and covenant not to sue Chicago Movie Tours & Talks LLC (hereafter called the “Company”), its guides, employees, and agents from liability from any and all claims, including the negligence of the Company, its guides, employees, and agents, resulting in personal injury, accidents or illnesses (including death), property loss, and damages arising from, but not limited to, participation in the Tour. ASSUMPTION OF RISKS Participation in the Tour carries with it certain inherent risks that cannot be eliminated regardless of the care taken to avoid injuries. The specific risks vary from one activity to another, but the risks range from (1) minor injuries such as scratches, bruises, and sprains (2) major injuries such as eye injury or loss of sight, joint or back injuries, heart attacks, and concussions to (3) insect bites, parasites, and other diseases, to (4) catastrophic injuries including paralysis and death. Other risks include slips, falls, weather, and other hazards associated with an outdoor venue with grounds managed and maintained by others. I have read the statements above, and I know, understand, and appreciate these and other risks that are inherent in the Tour. I hereby assert that my participation is voluntary and that I knowingly assume all such risks. INDEMNIFICATION AND HOLD HARMLESS I also agree to INDEMNIFY, DEFEND, AND HOLD the Company and its guides, employees, and agents HARMLESS from any and all claims, actions, suits, procedures, costs, expenses, damages and liabilities, including attorney’s fees brought as a result of my involvement in the Tour and to reimburse them for any such expenses incurred. SEVERABILITY The undersigned further expressly agrees that the foregoing waiver and assumption of risks agreement is intended to be as broad and inclusive as is permitted by the law of the State of Illinois and that if any portion thereof is held invalid, it is agreed that the balance shall, notwithstanding, continue in full legal force and effect. MEDIA RELEASE I hereby give permission to be photographed, videotaped, and/or audio taped during the Tour. I further give permission for such photographs, videotapes, and audiotapes to be used in print or broadcast media as deemed appropriate for promotion of this or other Company activities and for publicity surrounding participation in Company events. ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF UNDERSTANDING I have read this waiver of liability, assumption of risk, indemnity agreement, and media release, fully understand its terms, and understand that I am giving up substantial rights, including my right to sue. I acknowledge that I am signing the agreement freely and voluntarily, and intend by my digital signature to be a complete and unconditional release of all liability to the greatest extent allowed by law. INITIAL WAIVER

Every Wednesday, join us in guessing the Chicago-based movie or television show from one screenshot. Visit our archive to play the ones you missed! One-Shot Wednesday On Wednesdays, guess the Chicago-based movie or television show from one screenshot. My Best Friend's Wedding My Best Friend's Wedding is a romantic comedy that centers on Julianne (Julia Roberts), a food critic who realizes she's in love with her longtime best friend, Michael (Dermot Mulroney). Inconveniently, Julianne figures this out only a few days before Michael’s wedding to Kimmy (Cameron Diaz). Determined to win Michael’s love, Julianne tries to sabotage the wedding. The 1997 movie—which filmed on location all around Chicago —explores themes of love, friendship, and the complexities of unrequited feelings. This long shot of Julianne and Kimmy takes place inside the china department in the old Marshall Field & Co. department store on State St. (the store is now owned by Macy’s). Here, Julianne tries to convince Kimmy to get her wealthy father to offer Michael a job. This, she knows, will upset Michael and lead him, presumably, to break off the wedding. Julianne's scheme fails. A box office success in 1997, My Best Friend’s Wedding is notable for at least two reasons: First, the movie subverts rom-com tropes . Unlike most romantic comedies, in which the protagonist ends up with the person she loves, My Best Friend's Wedding defies expectations by not having Julianne "win" Michael in the end. Instead, Michael goes through with his marriage to Kimmy, leaving Julianne to come to terms with her feelings and behavior. For a mainstream Hollywood rom-com, the conclusion is rather bittersweet. Second, Julia Roberts plays a villain (of sorts). Considered “America’s sweetheart” at the time, Roberts does not play the typical lovable rom-com heroine in My Best Friend’s Wedding . She spends much of the film manipulating people to break up her best friend's wedding—unconventional actions not only for a protagonist in this genre, but also for Julia Roberts’ established 1990s star image. Welcome to One-Shot Wednesday! Think you’re a Chicago screen buff? On Wednesdays, we post one still from a movie or TV show filmed or set in the Windy City. Your mission? Guess the title! You've already seen this week’s image above. If you're feeling nostalgic, explore the full archive of past challenges to keep the fun rolling. Psst: you're on screenshot: 84 Access Archive

Upcoming Talks See where Kelli will be speaking next—online and in person. ! Widget Didn’t Load Check your internet and refresh this page. If that doesn’t work, contact us. Registration links to dates in the far future may not yet be available. Check back, or subscribe to be notified . Host This Crowd Favorite! How Do Movies Guide Your Eyes? Get introduced to cinematography to experience movies on a new level Learn More View All Talks

Every Wednesday, join us in guessing the Chicago-based movie or television show from one screenshot. Visit our archive to play the ones you missed! One-Shot Wednesday On Wednesdays, guess the Chicago-based movie or television show from one screenshot. Ferris Bueller's Day Off From Ferris Bueller’s Day Off (1986), this is an extreme close-up of the reservation book for a (fake) restaurant called Chez Quis. In the scene, Ferris Bueller (Matthew Broderick) enters the fancy Chicago restaurant, sneaks a peek at the reservation book, picks the name Abe Froman , and then pretends to be Froman for the next hour or so. Spot Froman’s name at the top left corner of today’s screenshot. Almost 40 years after audiences were introduced to Chez Quis, the made-up restaurant—alongside other Chicago landmarks and items in Ferris Bueller’s Day Off —ushered in 2025 in the 136th Tournament of Roses Parade . Enjoy Illinois , the state’s official tourism website, showcased this Ferris Bueller’s Day Off-themed float at the 136th Tournament of Roses Parade on New Year’s Day 2025. The float featured the following: Chez Quis’s sign Wrigley Field marquee Calder’s Flamingo Sears Tower “Save Ferris” water tower Red sports car Floral homage to Georges Seurat’s 1886 Sunday on La Grande Jatte . Illinois native Brian Culbertson performed “Danke Schoen,” and the parade—themed “Best Day Ever!”—concluded with the Rose Bowl Game. Ferris Bueller proves yet again that life moves pretty fast—and it’s worth stopping to enjoy the ride! Watch a montage of the float being assembled here . Welcome to One-Shot Wednesday! Think you’re a Chicago screen buff? On Wednesdays, we post one still from a movie or TV show filmed or set in the Windy City. Your mission? Guess the title! You've already seen this week’s image above. If you're feeling nostalgic, explore the full archive of past challenges to keep the fun rolling. Psst: you're on screenshot: 84 Access Archive