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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 Registration links to dates in the far future may not yet be available. Check back, or subscribe to be notified . Host This Crowd Favorite! Women and Early Cinema in Chicago: Untold Stories Behind the Silent Screen Explore hidden stories of women who shaped early Chicago cinema, with HD footage of key locations where they lived and worked Learn More View All Talks

On a 90-minute guided movie walking tour, uncover Hollywood's dark past in Chicago through The Wizard of Oz, cocaine movies, and gangsters The Wizard of Oz and Dark Hollywood in Chicago On a 90-minute guided movie walking tour, uncover Hollywood's dark past in Chicago through The Wizard of Oz, cocaine movies, and gangsters Read Reviews Book Public Tour Book Private Tour About 1.5 hrs 1.25 mi. 8 guests $39.99 On a 90-minute guided movie walking tour, uncover Hollywood's dark past in Chicago through The Wizard of Oz, cocaine movies, and gangsters Meet up in Chicago's Lincoln Park neighborhood for The Wizard of Oz and Dark Hollywood in Chicago , a 90-minute guided outdoor walking tour on the darker side of the silver screen! A park inspired by The Wizard of Oz , homes designed by Chicago's leading architect, and a theater built for moving pictures seem friendly enough. But a closer look at these three Chicago locations leads you down a destructive path closely tied to Hollywood. You'll start the tour in a neighborhood park devoted to The Wizard of Oz . Here, you'll learn about Chicago's connections to the beloved children's story. But also, brace yourself for untold, darker tales behind the iconic 1939 movie that may leave you shocked. Your adventure with The Wizard of Oz and Dark Hollywood in Chicago continues as you stroll down a tree-lined street, surrounded by houses with a rich history that whisper secrets of Hollywood's scandalous silent era. As you explore these architectural gems, your expert PhD tour guide , will disclose mind-boggling connections to "cocaine comedies." From there, you'll follow a narrow brick road. It's not yellow, alas. But look carefully as you walk, and you'll find written remnants of Chicago's past. On the final stretch, your tour takes a thrilling turn into the heart of Chicago's notorious gangster history, seamlessly interwoven with the glamour of Hollywood's golden era. Along your The Wizard of Oz and Dark Hollywood in Chicago journey, film clips, screenshots, newspaper clippings, and vintage movie magazines will transport you back in time, offering glimpses into the scandalous happenings of yesteryear. Don't miss your chance to be part of this adventure in Chicago. Book your spot! Movies/TV Highlighted Public Enemies (2009) High Fidelity (2000) The Wizard of Oz (1939) Get Out and Get Under (1920) The Mystery of the Leaping Fish (1916) For His Son (1912) The Wonderful Wizard of Oz (1910) Public Tour Dates Show More Dates Private Tours Book this tour as a private or group tour! The private tour price listed below is a flat fee for up to 8 guests. If you have more than 8 in your party, please contact us to see if we can accommodate you. Book Private $399 Tour Specifics Start/End Points The tour starts at Oz Park, 2021 N Burling St. next to the Tin Man sculpture (W. Webster/N. Larrabee). The tour ends at 2433 N Lincoln Ave. Waivers Guests must initial a digital general waiver of liability with Chicago Movie Tours when they book. Guardians must sign waivers for children under the age of 18. Low Attendance To ensure we can provide a fun, engaging, and economically feasible public tour, we typically need a minimum of 4 guests. Head over to Tour Terms and Conditions for more on this policy, including reasons behind it and your refund options if, in the rare instance, a tour is cancelled due to low attendance. Parking/Transportation If available, free parking spots run along the residential streets near Oz Park. Public transit : take the Brown Line or Purple Line to Armitage, or take the Brown, Purple, or Red Line to Fullerton. Our starting point is a 0.4 mile-walk from the Armitage 'L' station and a 0.5-mile walk from the Fullerton 'L' station. Accessibility All of our stops on the walking tour have sidewalks and crosswalks. We will travel down an original brick-paved road. What to Bring Please wear weather-appropriate clothing. Tours run rain or shine. Restrooms A Target store with a public restroom is near the start of our tour route. Children While this tour explores the children's story The Wizard of Oz , some content may not be appropriate for guests under age 13. Photography/Video No video or audio recording of the tour, but take as many pictures as you'd like! Cancellations and Refunds You may cancel or amend your reservation 48 hours or more before the tour departs. Read more Tour Terms and Conditions . What's Included Guided 90-min. outdoor walking tour in Chicago's Lincoln Park neighborhood, including buildings with National Historic and Chicago Landmark status Expert tour guide commentary from a PhD in film Obscure stories about Chicago's ties to The Wizard of Oz and Hollywood's scandalous past Small group to generate engagement and foster a personalized tour Visual and audio media to enhance your experience Plenty of Instagram opportunities Mini (Oz-themed) goodie bags! 💙 Reviews Michelle Wizard of Oz in Chicago average rating is 5 out of 5 What a gem of a find our tour was! A friend of mine and I did the Dark Hollywood tour today, as it sounded intriguing and something different to do. I had so much fun! Learned a ton about Chicago, Hollywood, The Wizard of Oz and other films, and even some broader history that I never knew, and I found it all fascinating. Also loved the incredible photos that the tour guide brought pertaining to all the relevant history. Tour guide was lovely and welcoming of all my questions. I look forward to taking another Movie Tour at the old Joliet prison in September! July 7, 2024 Todd Miller Wizard of Oz in Chicago average rating is 5 out of 5 Best Chicago tour I’ve been on. Don’t miss it!! November 11, 2023 Sarah Wizard of Oz in Chicago average rating is 5 out of 5 So glad I made the decision to attend my first tour with Chicago Movie Tours (Dark Hollywood and The Wizard of Oz in Chicago at Oz Park). The tour was fun and interactive. Kelli did a fantastic job of presenting and leading! She was a joy! Different mediums were used (book, photo, video, examining statues on the tour, & stories) to share history and movie knowledge. I learned a lot of information that I’ve been excited to share with others! Kelli did a wonderful job bringing Chicago and (multiple) movies together on this tour. Looking forward to attending more tours! November 1, 2023 Load More Reviews

Explore guest reviews for Chicago Movie Tours! Read firsthand accounts from visitors who have discovered Chicago through Kelli's walking tours and movie talks. Reviews Curious about our guided tours and talks? See what others have to say! Filter by Event Leave Your Review Katherine Art of Ferris Bueller average rating is 5 out of 5 Great tour - very accessible even if you are just a casual fan of the film or of art. It was a fun new way to experience the Art Institute. Nov 22, 2025 Sherman Art of Ferris Bueller average rating is 5 out of 5 Kelli was awesome! Clear instructions on where and when to meet, then prompt start of the tour. She clearly knows art so that was the one aspect I did not expect. It was wonderful to hear about the background of the artists to give some context to the painting/sculpture. Definitely more and better than I expected. Thank you. Oct 4, 2025 Don From Fairground to Film Set average rating is 5 out of 5 A very interesting tour of the Midway area and early Chicago film history - especially the unforgettable Lorado Taft. Sep 21, 2025 Kristina Art of Ferris Bueller average rating is 5 out of 5 “Life moves pretty fast, if you don’t stop and take this tour with Kelli you could miss it!” We loved this tour and learned so much from Kelli. As big fans of Ferris Bueller it was even more amazing and as locals to Chicago it was a great way to enjoy the Art Institute from a different perspective. Nov 8, 2025 Carole Hollywood on the Rails average rating is 5 out of 5 I learned so much about the history of this landmark building and the many movies filmed here. Sep 26, 2025 Melissa Art of Ferris Bueller average rating is 5 out of 5 John Hughes film lovers unite. Great insight to why he included art in a film about teenagers. And what it meant to each character. Save Ferris! Aug 31, 2025 Rachel Art of Ferris Bueller average rating is 5 out of 5 We loved this tour—we could take it NINE TIMES! We had a fantastic time with Kelli seeing all the familiar art sites from the movie we know and love. Her breadth of knowledge about art and film was evident and she was so well prepared with video clips, quotes from various people involved with the movie, and efficient move through the building ending with the Chagall windows. Highly recommend for fans of the movie or newbies—a great quick move around the museum! Nov 8, 2025 Alan Art of Ferris Bueller average rating is 5 out of 5 I took Kelli's tour as part of an academic conference and I was impressed. She knew Chicago history and the Ferris Bueller film quite well. She made me stop and consider art works I would not have given a second glance. This tour was well worth the time and the next time I am in Chicago, I'll definitely take another Chicago Movie Tour. They are both knowledgeable and fun celebrating popular culture through movies. Sep 25, 2025 Fanni Art of Ferris Bueller average rating is 5 out of 5 Kelli is a very knowledgeable, engaging, and fun guide. This tour is really well organized, paced, and generally enjoyable, it is such a great way to explore the film more through its art, all the while discovering the Chicago Art Institute!! 100% recommend. Aug 10, 2025 Show More Reviews

Read about Chicago Movie Tours in the local, national, and international press. Press Read about Chicago Movie Tours in the local, national, and international press. Play Video Play Video Play Video Play Video Play Video Play Video Chicago Tribune Nov 19, 2025 “In this instance, you’re discovering Chicago through a very specific part of a very specific film,” Marshall said. Read More NBC 5 Chicago May 4, 2025 Marshall gives tours at Union Station, and her customers always ask about that infamous scene [in The Untouchables]. “We know this scene was improv’d. It was not in the original script, which I find fascinating. It’s about nine and half minutes, so it’s lengthy.” Watch Now Patch Mar 1, 2025 "Through the use of original photographs, vintage newspaper articles, and a virtual reality Ferris Wheel experience, Kelli Marshall explores how women's fashion at the time had to balance both practicality and style." Read More NBC 5 Chicago Nov 21, 2024 "As 'Wicked' heads to theaters across the country, NBC Chicago’s Lexi Sutter takes a look at the city’s connection to 'The Wizard of Oz.'” Watch Now Chicago Symphony Orchestra Oct 23, 2024 "Chicago Movie Tours has offered a virtual walking tour (not currently available) that allows viewers wander (via HD video) through Oz Park, which pays tribute to the Tin Man, Scarecrow, Cowardly Lion, Dorothy and Toto." Read More Off Topic Podcast Aug 12, 2024 "In this episode I had the chance to discuss the rich history of movie making in Chicago with Kelli from Chicago Movie Tours. Check out the episode, go follow her on all of the social media sites, and, more importantly, book a tour and learn something about cinema in Chicago." — Tom Powell, Jr. Listen Now WBEZ Chicago Jun 17, 2024 “From Fairgrounds to Film Set: Chicago’s Midway, Movies, and the 1893 World’s Fair” starts from the Midway Plaisance, whose ties go back to the World’s Fair, then winds along the tree-lined streets of Hyde Park to showcase five stops tied to the movies." Read More SHRM Apr 9, 2024 "Fans of the movie “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” can even follow in the footsteps of Ferris and his pals through a special tour at the Art Institute of Chicago." Read More WGN Spotlight Chicago Nov 28, 2023 "You can walk in the footsteps of Ferris Bueller to see the Art Institute of Chicago through the eyes of the characters in the movie." Watch Now ABC 7 Chicago Oct 27, 2023 "The Brewster Building in Chicago's Lakeview neighborhood catches the eye, inside and out." Watch Now Choose Chicago Oct 9, 2023 "Take a Chicago movie guided tour. Go 'on location' at various Chicago movie hotspots with Chicago Movie Tours. You’ll hit the highlights and even learn some unexpected history." Read More Chicago Mag Oct 9, 2023 "Step into Ferris’s shoes at the Art of Ferris Bueller tour, put on by Chicago Movie Tours." Read More Yahoo Jul 21, 2023 "Someone else [hey, that's us!] shared a photo of a mural painted on the side of a building in his birth city of Chicago..." Read More WBEZ Chicago Jun 22, 2023 "Build your own bucket list with our customizable guide to 250+ events and happenings around the city." Read More CNN Brazil Apr 2, 2023 "Those who go to Chicago will also be able to find special tours that involve famous locations and make movie lovers know the city from another perspective. One of them is Chicago Movie Tours." Read More The Points Guy Nov 18, 2022 "Scan the internet and you’ll find tour companies that have crafted '80s-movie-themed itineraries paying homage to the city’s famed landmarks and magical moments of movie lore: the demolition derby of "The Blues Brothers," the underbelly of Gotham City and, of course, the cultural touchstones and museums of "Ferris Bueller’s Day Off." — Caroline Lascom Read More Chicago Reader Oct 25, 2022 "If you’ve ever strolled through Woodlawn Cemetery in suburban Forest Park (which, given the season, might apply to some of you) you might have happened upon a section that features five elephant-shaped monuments...Learn more tonight from Chicago Movie Tours as they offer a free 20-minute online presentation on their Facebook page that will tell you more about the plots and their place in both Chicago and circus history." Read More Forgotten Hollywood Podcast Sep 19, 2022 "Doug Hess from Forgotten Hollywood discusses the impact Chicago has on the movies and Kelli's passion for Gene Kelly." Listen Now Washington Post Sep 16, 2022 "The director featured 40 works in that segment, notes Kelli Marshall, founder of Chicago Movie Tours. Marshall leads a 75-minute The Art of Ferris Bueller tour, which focuses on how the artwork relates to the characters and Hughes himself." Read More Chicago Reader Aug 23, 2022 "Chicago Movie Tours offers a free and entirely online look at the S.S. Eastland disaster, the 1915 shipwreck that resulted in the loss of over 800 passengers and crew after the ship rolled over onto its side while tied to a dock on the Chicago River. The tour company will offer a virtual presentation including insight from a cigar maker who lost family in the disaster, as well as recently unearthed film documenting the tragedy. It’s viewable on the Chicago Movie Tours Facebook page tonight at 7 PM." Read More Riverside-Brookfield Landmark Sep 21, 2021 "This presentation, which showcases Union Station and the special way it connects us all, is Part One of the library’s 'All Aboard!' series." — Riverside/Brookfield Landmark Read More Patch Jun 4, 2021 "Movie lovers can dive into three new classes by Chicago Movie Tours." Read More Chicago History Podcast May 20, 2021 "Tommy Henry from Chicago History Podcast and Kelli sat down with the screenwriter of Backdraft to discuss his experience with the fiery action thriller, shot in Chicago and released 30 years ago May 2021." Listen Now Moraine Valley Community College May 1, 2021 "Students who take Marshall's class will learn how to analyze specific subjects or film types. 'I always try to situate the material within the time frame it was created,' she says. 'After all, art, including cinema, isn’t created in a vacuum. There are reasons a film exists when it does, why it looks like it does, and why it affects who it does.'" Read More Chicago Reader Mar 5, 2021 "Chicago Movie Tours hosts a virtual tour of Union Station with an emphasis on its role in the movies." Read More Patch Feb 25, 2021 "On Tuesday, March 9, Kelli Marshall of Chicago Movie Tours leads a presentation about how Hollywood portrays women." Read More WBEZ Chicago Feb 8, 2021 "A local tour company is highlighting Chicago's historic connection to Mardi Gras." WBEZ Chicago Read More Patch Dec 29, 2020 "Explore the movie’s backstories, mix of Hollywood genres, and impact on Chicago-based film making. This program will be presented LIVE on Zoom by movie historian Kelli Marshall." Read More The UCSD Guardian Oct 4, 2020 "Watch tutorials by Chicago Movie Tours on how costumes, make up, and hair were put together for movies in the 1920s." Read More Riverside-Brookfield Landmark Jul 28, 2020 "Film scholar Kelli Marshall will explore the movie’s backstories, mix of Hollywood genres and impact on Chicago-based film-making." Read More Chicago Tribune May 28, 2020 "In April 2020, film scholar Kelli Marshall was ready to launch her new business, Chicago Movie Tours. 'I had a tour lined up for April 5 at Old Joliet Prison and it was actually sold out,' she said. 'But then the pandemic hit...'" Read More Washington Post "Could Ferris Bueller’s Day Off really be done?" "The director featured 40 works in that segment, notes Kelli Marshall, founder of Chicago Movie Tours. Marshall leads a 75-minute The Art of Ferris Bueller tour , which focuses on how the artwork relates to the characters and Hughes himself." Keep Reading

Meet Kelli Marshall, PhD, a public speaker, tour guide, and educator who helps visitors and residents discover Chicago through the movies. Meet Kelli KELLI MARSHALL is a public speaker, educator, tour guide, and small business owner who helps visitors and residents discover Chicago through film. Before starting Chicago Movie Tours , Kelli spent more than a decade as a professor of film and media studies. With hundreds of lectures, presentations, and invited talks under her belt, Kelli has honed her ability to present complex material in an engaging, straightforward manner. This skill—combined with memorable stories, humor, relaxed participation opportunities, and plenty of visual and aural aids—has earned Kelli several teaching awards and positive reviews . Kelli’s writings on film and television have been featured in books, peer-reviewed journals, and the popular press. Her expertise has also been highlighted on podcasts, local TV, and international radio programs, covering such topics as The Wizard of Oz , Singin’ in the Rain , Ferris Bueller’s Day Off , and Seinfeld . For fun, Kelli runs and walks local races, renovates her Chicago bungalow (c. 1924), wrangles her two rescue pups, and curates a Gene Kelly fansite. Kelli holds a PhD in Humanities, an M.A. in English, and a B.A. in English with minors in history and French.

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. The Fugitive Much of The Fugitive (Andrew Davis, 1993) is filmed in and around Chicago. But this scene, the dam jump, was shot in North Carolina at the Cheoah Dam. In this short video, Harrison Ford and the stunt coordinator (I assume?) recount how the scene was conceived and shot. 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. Harry and Tonto Harry and Tonto (1974) follows widowed retiree Harry Coombes (Art Carney) and his faithful cat, Tonto, on a cross-country journey. As the pair travel from NYC to LA—stopping in Chicago—they encounter interesting characters and experiences that challenge Harry’s perspectives on life, love, and aging. In this medium shot, Tonto cleans himself on the back dashboard of Harry’s car. The 1970s Chicago skyline is visible in the background. Harry and Tonto filmed for 2.5 weeks in Chicago before cast and crew headed west to the Grand Canyon, Las Vegas, and finally Los Angeles (Greeley Daily Tribune , 24 Oct 1973). During production, Art Carney grew quite fond of the cat who played Tonto, a 4-year-old stray off the streets of LA. “The cat’s in love with Art,” said his trainer, Betty Schumacher in a 1974 interview with the St. Louis Post-Dispatch . In fact, after Harry and Tonto wrapped, Carney tried to buy the cat actor. But alas, he was not for sale. ⚠️ Warning for sensitive viewers: the cat dies in the film. 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

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.

Upcoming Talks See where Kelli will be speaking next—online and in person. Nov 18, 2025, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM CST Chicago and The Wizard of Oz / Bridgeview Public Library, 7840 W 79th St, Bridgeview, IL 60455, USA Learn more Nov 18, 2025, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM CST Bridgeview Public Library, 7840 W 79th St, Bridgeview, IL 60455, USA Discover Chicago's connections to 'The Wizard of Oz' Dec 06, 2025, 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM CST Private: Chicago, Christmas Movies, and Class / Location is TBD Learn more Dec 06, 2025, 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM CST Location is TBD Learn about class stereotypes in three Chicago-based Christmas movies Dec 09, 2025, 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM CST Holiday Chaos: Behind the Scenes of "National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation" / Green Hills Public Library, 10331 Interlochen Dr, Palos Hills, IL 60465, USA Register Dec 09, 2025, 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM CST Green Hills Public Library, 10331 Interlochen Dr, Palos Hills, IL 60465, USA Yule love it! Unwrap the holiday magic and dive into the world of the Griswold family 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 Registration links to dates in the far future may not yet be available. Check back, or subscribe to be notified . Host This Crowd Favorite! Dirty Dancing on Abortion Revisit the abortion plot in Dirty Dancing, without which the entire movie falls apart Learn More View All Talks

Upcoming Talks See where Kelli will be speaking next—online and in person. Nov 18, 2025, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM CST Chicago and The Wizard of Oz / Bridgeview Public Library, 7840 W 79th St, Bridgeview, IL 60455, USA Learn more Nov 18, 2025, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM CST Bridgeview Public Library, 7840 W 79th St, Bridgeview, IL 60455, USA Discover Chicago's connections to 'The Wizard of Oz' Dec 06, 2025, 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM CST Private: Chicago, Christmas Movies, and Class / Location is TBD Learn more Dec 06, 2025, 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM CST Location is TBD Learn about class stereotypes in three Chicago-based Christmas movies Dec 09, 2025, 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM CST Holiday Chaos: Behind the Scenes of "National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation" / Green Hills Public Library, 10331 Interlochen Dr, Palos Hills, IL 60465, USA Register Dec 09, 2025, 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM CST Green Hills Public Library, 10331 Interlochen Dr, Palos Hills, IL 60465, USA Yule love it! Unwrap the holiday magic and dive into the world of the Griswold family 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 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

Upcoming Talks See where Kelli will be speaking next—online and in person. Nov 18, 2025, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM CST Chicago and The Wizard of Oz / Bridgeview Public Library, 7840 W 79th St, Bridgeview, IL 60455, USA Learn more Nov 18, 2025, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM CST Bridgeview Public Library, 7840 W 79th St, Bridgeview, IL 60455, USA Discover Chicago's connections to 'The Wizard of Oz' Dec 06, 2025, 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM CST Private: Chicago, Christmas Movies, and Class / Location is TBD Learn more Dec 06, 2025, 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM CST Location is TBD Learn about class stereotypes in three Chicago-based Christmas movies Dec 09, 2025, 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM CST Holiday Chaos: Behind the Scenes of "National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation" / Green Hills Public Library, 10331 Interlochen Dr, Palos Hills, IL 60465, USA Register Dec 09, 2025, 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM CST Green Hills Public Library, 10331 Interlochen Dr, Palos Hills, IL 60465, USA Yule love it! Unwrap the holiday magic and dive into the world of the Griswold family 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 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 Murals and Movie Stars Explore the lives of three stars via massive murals in Chicago 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. Flatliners Flatliners (1990) stars Kiefer Sutherland, Julia Roberts, William Baldwin, Oliver Platt, and Kevin Bacon. The movie follows five medical students conducting clandestine near-death experiments and was filmed at Loyola University Chicago between October 1989 and January 1990. The character in this close-up shot is Winnie Hicks (Kesha Reed ), a girl Kevin Bacon’s character, David, bullied in grade school. While flatlining, he is confronted by the 8-year-old girl on an ‘L’ train . She taunts him the way he taunted her, with ample amounts of vulgarity and hate. Watch the full scene below. Later in the movie, David visits Winnie , now an adult and played by Kimberly Scott . He apologizes for the way he tormented her, and she accepts his apology. Despite her small role, Scott received sigificant praise from film critics. One even says her “well-played, genuinely poignant scene with Bacon” balances Flatliners’ repetition and excess (The Monitor , 10 Aug 1990). 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