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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. Wayne's World This screenshot comes from the most recognizable scene in the 1992 comedy Wayne’s World . The "Bohemian Rhapsody" scene features the film’s main characters, Wayne (Mike Myers) and Garth (Dana Carvey), headbanging in a car with their friends as they lip-sync to Queen's rock ballad. The moment, which kicks off the movie, became a cultural phenomenon, and it boosted the track's popularity years after its original release. Although Wayne’s World is set in Aurora, Illinois (a far-western suburb of Chicago), virtually none of the movie was filmed here. It was shot in and around Los Angeles. Most of the Chicago-area footage Wayne’s World does include, you’ll find in the “Bohemian Rhapsody” montage. For example, as the characters sing and drive, look for: Ray Krey’s Wheels Automart Midwest Eye Clinic (with Native American figure atop) Scatchell’s Beef Stand Chicago Joe’s the Spindle Unfortunately, some of these locales, like the Spindle, no longer exist. Featured in today’s screenshot, the Spindle stood on Cermak Plaza at Harlem Avenue in Berwyn, Illinois , about 13 miles west of Chicago. It was created in 1989 by Dustin Schuler and has had several names: the Spindle Car Kabob Cars on a Spike In short, the Spindle was a 50-foot spike with eight cars ranging in styles from the 1960s to the 1980s impaled upon it. The sculpture was torn down in May of 2008, with demolition costing around $300,000. The good news: the Spindle, of course, still lives on in Wayne's World and, amazingly, within the Library of Congress . What’s more, as of this writing, you’ll can visit a tiny version of the sculpture in the parking lot of Paisan’s Pizzeria in Berwyn . 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

Browse Chicago Movie Tours' FAQs for answers to common questions about public and private walking tours, movie talks, and more. FAQs Get answers to common questions about tours, talks, bookings, and more. Public Tour FAQs Private Tour FAQs Talks FAQs FAQs: Public Tours How do I book a public walking tour? Book quickly by browsing a list of walking tours or our tour calendar . How long are your walking tours? Our walking tours last between 1.5–2 hours, giving you plenty of time to explore iconic Chicago film locations and hear fascinating behind-the-scenes stories. How much walking is involved? Walking tours cover half a mile to 1.5 miles at a leisurely pace, with plenty of stops for photos and storytelling. Look for specific mileage under each tour description . How many guests are on your walking tours? Most of Chicago Movie Tours' public and private walking tours are capped at approximately 8 guests . Kelli keeps groups small to ensure everyone can easily see the multimedia content she shares on a large iPad. Smaller groups also encourage participation and create a sense of community during the tour! If you have a larger group, Kelli is happy to split it into smaller ones to accommodate your needs. Exception : Provided the property and staffing are available, our tour Chicago and Movies in Old Joliet Prison may accommodate up to 25 people or more. What movies do your walking tours feature? Walking tours cover a range of films and TV series shot in Chicago, including The Dark Knight , Ferris Bueller's Day Off , The Untouchables , and many more. You will also explore lesser-known movies and cinematic connections to the city. For specifics, look for the "Movies/TV Highlighted" section under individual tour descriptions . Are your walking tours family friendly? All walking tours are designed to be enjoyable for all ages. However, some content may be more suitable for older children and adults. For example, our Wizard of Oz walking tour explores the children's story The Wonderful Wizard of Oz , but some content may not be appropriate for guests under age 13. Is there a minimum number of participants required for the tour to run? Yes, most of our public walking tours require a minimum of 4 participants . If the minimum isn’t met, we’ll notify you in advance to reschedule or offer a refund. Get more specifics on our low attendance policy in Tour Terms and Conditions . Do you offer private walking tours? Absolutely! Kelli offers private versions of all walking tours , provided properties and dates are available. She also offers bespoke tours that allow you to customize the schedule and even focus on specific movies or locations. Please contact Kelli at least 2 weeks prior to your preferred tour date for a bespoke tour. Read more about Private Tours . Do you offer any virtual tours? Yes, Kelli offers virtual tours, many free. Learn more about them here . What happens if it rains or snows? Walking tours run rain, shine—or snow (it is Chicago after all)! In the case of extreme weather, Kelli will contact you to discuss rescheduling or other options. Are your tours wheelchair accessible? Kelli strives to make tours as accessible as possible. However, some locations we visit are in or around historic buildings that may not have fully accessible pathways. Please contact Kelli in advance to discuss specific accessibility needs, or look under Tour Specifics > Accessibility under individual tour descriptions for the latest information about accessibility. What is your cancellation policy? You may cancel or amend your reservation 48 hours or more before the tour departs. Cancellations received within 48 hours of tour departure—along with late arrivals and no-shows after a tour departs—are not eligible for refunds. Read more about cancelling or changing reservations on Tour Terms and Conditions . Can I take photos on the tour? Yes! Please take photos—and capture your favorite movie locations along the way. However, video and audio recording any of our tours is prohibited. Can I gift a walking tour to someone? Yes! We offer gift cards for our walking tours , which make a great present for movie lovers or anyone looking to explore Chicago. Why are museum tickets not included in your Ferris Bueller walking tour? Admission to the Art Institute of Chicago is not included in The Art of Ferris Bueller ticket price for three reasons: Direct Admission Pricing : The Art Institute of Chicago sets its own admission prices that can vary depending on factors such as special exhibitions and events. By keeping admission separate, we ensure you pay the most current rate directly to the museum, allowing for flexibility based on your visit. Membership Discounts : Many of our tour guests may have museum memberships or reciprocal admission privileges that provide discounts or free entry. By separating our tour fee from museum admission, we respect those benefits and allow our guests to take advantage of their memberships. Planning Flexibility : This approach allows you to plan your visit according to your preferences. You can arrive early, explore the museum at your own pace before the tour starts, or extend your visit afterward to enjoy additional exhibits. Should I tip the tour guide? While tipping is never expected, it’s always appreciated! If you enjoyed the tour and feel your guide provided a memorable experience, feel free to tip as a gesture of thanks . Our guide invests significant time in researching and delivering high-quality tours to ensure you have a unique and insightful experience. Tipping is a great way to show your appreciation! FAQs: Private Tours Do you offer private walking tours? Yes! All of Chicago Movie Tours' walking tours are available for private tours, provided properties and dates are available. Looking for a customized tour? Please contact Kelli . What is the difference between a private and a customized or bespoke tour? The main difference between a private tour (of our existing walking tours ) and a private bespoke tour is the level of customization. Private tours of our existing walking tours follow a set route and itinerary. These tours are ideal for travelers who prefer the convenience of a curated experience without the need for extensive customization. Private tours offer the exclusivity of a private group while still exploring popular attractions or themes. Customized or bespoke tours allow travelers to design a unique itinerary from scratch. A private bespoke tour is a fully customized and tailor-made experience crafted according to your specific interests, preferences, and requirements. Private bespoke tours are ideal for travelers seeking a truly one-of-a-kind and immersive experience tailored precisely to their interests and preferences! Please contact Kelli at least 2 weeks prior to your preferred tour date for a bespoke tour . How many guests are allowed on private tours? Private tours are intended for parties of 8 people or fewer. These options work nicely for families and small social groups. Exception : Provided the property and staffing are available, our tour Chicago and Movies in Old Joliet Prison may accommodate up to 25 people or more. Do your private tours include a guide? Absolutely! All private (and customized) Chicago movie tours include a knowledgeable guide who accompanies your group throughout the experience. In the case of our movie-themed walking tours in Chicago, your guide is Kelli , a seasoned expert with a teaching background and a PhD focused on film studies. Kelli's extensive academic background and passion for cinema ensure that you'll receive in-depth insights into the movies filmed in Chicago, their historical context, and the behind-the-scenes stories that bring them to life. Do you offer private tours by bus, van, or car? No, we only offer walking tours at this time. How much do private tours cost? Private tour pricing starts at $399. Why are museum tickets not included in your Ferris Bueller tour? Admission to the Art Institute of Chicago is not included in The Art of Ferris Bueller ticket price for three reasons: Direct Admission Pricing : The Art Institute of Chicago sets its own admission prices that can vary depending on factors such as special exhibitions and events. By keeping admission separate, we ensure you pay the most current rate directly to the museum, allowing for flexibility based on your visit. Membership Discounts : Many of our tour guests may have museum memberships or reciprocal admission privileges that provide discounts or free entry. By separating our tour fee from museum admission, we respect those benefits and allow our guests to take advantage of their memberships. Planning Flexibility : This approach allows you to plan your visit according to your preferences. You can arrive early, explore the museum at your own pace before the tour starts, or extend your visit afterward to enjoy additional exhibits. How do I book a private tour? Book your private or custom walking tour by completing this short form or contacting Kelli . Should I tip the tour guide? While tipping is never expected, it’s always appreciated! If you enjoyed the tour and feel your guide provided a memorable experience, feel free to tip as a gesture of thanks . Our guide invests significant time in researching and delivering high-quality tours to ensure you have a unique and insightful experience. Tipping is a great way to show your appreciation! Are your private tours wheelchair accessible? Kelli strives to make tours as accessible as possible. However, some locations we visit are in or around historic buildings that may not have fully accessible pathways. Please contact Kelli in advance to discuss specific accessibility needs, or look under Tour Specifics > Accessibility under individual tour descriptions for the latest information about accessibility. FAQs: Talks What types of talks do you offer? Chicago Movie Tours offers a range of in-person and online talks, with most centered on Chicago’s rich film history . Kelli also provides general programs on topics like the representation of gender in Hollywood, film noir, and classic Christmas movies. Each talk is designed to be engaging, educational, and visually immersive! How long do your talks last? Most talks last 1 hour, depending on the content and audience engagement. Longer programs, film series, and deep dives into specific topics are also available upon request. Can I preview a talk before booking? Yes! Watch excerpts from full-length talks here to get a feel for how they run and look. How do I book a talk? You can book by reaching out to Kelli through this Request a Talk form . She will work with you to schedule the program and discuss any specific requests you might have. Who are your talks for? Chicago Movie Tours' talks reach a wide range of audiences, including libraries, schools, nonprofits, corporate groups, and film enthusiasts. Are the talks interactive? Yes, Kelli purposely designs most talks to be engaging and interactive. Participants often ask questions and discuss their own histories with the films and locations. Additionally, some programs include polls and trivia! How do your talks incorporate HD footage? Many programs include high-definition video footage of Chicago movie locations, placing viewers right where the filming (or historical events) happened. Whether in-person or online, this footage enhances the experience by visually transporting you to the iconic sites from your favorite films. What equipment is required for in-person talks? For in-person programs, Kelli creates and projects all content using her MacBook Pro , with video footage and other media embedded in Apple programs. A projector , large screen , and audio equipment are required at the venue. Kelli will bring her laptop and adapters to ensure compatibility with your setup. If your venue doesn’t have the necessary equipment, we'll work together to find a solution! How much do talks cost? All programs start at $300, but discounts (up to 20%!) are available for multiple bookings and partnerships. Get specifics on pricing and discounts . Can I customize a talk for my group? Yes! Kelli can tailor programs to meet the specific interests of your group. Whether you’re interested in Chicago’s film legacy, classic Hollywood themes, or a specific movie genre, she can customize the content, given enough time in advance. Contact Kelli to discuss customization options.

Book a film speaker for adult library events. Dr. Kelli Marshall offers movie history talks for curious audiences—perfect for libraries, nonprofits, community centers, and more. List of Talks Browse 40+ film history talks available for conferences, libraries, classrooms, and more. Featured Talk Women and Early Cinema in Chicago : Untold Stories Behind the Silent Screen Get the Stories Reset Filter America's Most Famous Diner, Chicago Style Visit a Chicago mural that spoofs one of American art's most well-known paintings by inserting celebrity likenesses Beyond the Blues Brothers Celebrate the 1980 Chicago-based movie in all its iterations Black Movie History in Chicago: Cinematic Milestones and Sacred Grounds Explore Black film history in Chicago through select movies and sites that connect them Brief History of Hollywood Film Learn about three eras of Hollywood's history, from 1893-1970 Chicago Movie Houses: Hidden Histories and Lost Glamour Uncover the histories of three movie theaters in Chicago's Rogers Park neighborhood Chicago Murals and Movie Stars Explore the lives of three stars via massive murals in Chicago Chicago and Movies on the Mississippi River Visit Vicksburg, Mississippi, as you learn about its ties to Chicago and movies Chicago and The Wizard of Oz Discover Chicago's connections to the classic children's story—now updated with new content! Chicago's World's Fairs and the Movies Discover how Chicago helped advance film and create movie stars Chicago, Christmas Movies, and Class Consider what three Chicago-based Christmas movies say about social class Chicago, Movies, and the 1918 Pandemic Learn about three Chicago movie theaters that survived the 1918 flu pandemic Cinematic Canines and Circus Stars in Chicagoland Cemeteries Delve into the intersection of film history, animal performers, and cemetery lore Comedy in Chicago: The Marx Brothers and Bob Newhart Learn about the Chicago connections of a few giants of American comedy Countdown to the Oscars: Illinois Winners, Scandalous Moments, and Oscar Bait Celebrate Illinois' Oscar winners, scandalous moments, and "Oscar bait" as you countdown to this year's Academy Awards Dirty Dancing on Abortion Revisit the abortion plot in Dirty Dancing, without which the entire movie falls apart Festivus 101: A Celebration for the Rest of Us Become an expert on Festivus and its place in pop culture, Chicago's included Film Noir: Hollywood's Darkest Timeline Dive into film noir—dark plots, dim lights, and dangerous cities, including Chicago From Ferris to the Frontlines: Chicago's Art Institute and Grant Park in the Movies From Ferris Bueller to political drama, see the Art Institute of Chicago and Grant Park through the lens of film Gender in Hollywood: Men Explore four typical depictions of men in Hollywood film Gender in Hollywood: Women Encounter four ways Hollywood has traditionally represented women onscreen 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 Hollywood Bites: From Golden Age Glamour to Rom-Com Delights Discover a Chicago restaurant booth frequented by classic movie stars, and analyze food in "When Harry Met Sally" Horror Movies in Chicago: Child's Play and The Fury Delve into the backstories, productions, and locations of Chicago-based horror films "The Fury" and "Child's Play" How Are Movie Worlds Created? Explore settings, props, actors, costumes, makeup, and lighting How Do Movies Guide Your Eyes? Get introduced to cinematography to experience movies on a new level Director's Chair Book Your Next Movie Talk

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! Women's Fashion, Ferris Wheels, and Film at the 1893 Chicago World's Fair Examine women's fashion at the 1893 Chicago World's Fair while considering the iconic Ferris Wheel and fair photography Learn More View All Talks

Examine women's fashion at the 1893 Chicago World's Fair while considering the iconic Ferris Wheel and fair photography Women's Fashion, Ferris Wheels, and Film at the 1893 Chicago World's Fair Examine women's fashion at the 1893 Chicago World's Fair while considering the iconic Ferris Wheel and fair photography All Talks About Step back in time to the 1893 Chicago World's Fair , where innovation and transformation shaped not only the city but also the lives—and wardrobes—of women. As women began challenging traditional gender roles in the early 1890s, advice columns influenced what they should wear to the Chicago Fair. What did these recommendations reveal about shifting societal norms? And how did they prepare women to be photographed at one of the most visually documented events of the era? Through original Fair photographs, vintage newspaper articles, and a virtual reality ride on the dazzling new Ferris Wheel, this program explores how fashion balanced practicality, style, and the growing influence of the camera. Don’t miss this opportunity to engage with history, fashion, and amusement! Request Talk

Want a preview of Chicago Movie Tours' talks? Watch an excerpt from a recorded session. Watch a Talk Want a preview? Watch an excerpt from a recorded session. Play Video Play Video 03:18 Play Video Play Video 02:39 Play Video Play Video 03:19 Play Video Play Video 04:15 Director's Chair Book Your Next Movie Talk

Browse upcoming talks and see where Kelli from Chicago Movie Tours will speak publicly next—online and in person. Upcoming Talks See where Kelli will be speaking next—online and in person. In-Person Talks Virtual Tours and Talks In-Person Talks Nov 18, 2025, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM CST Chicago and The Wizard of Oz / 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 / 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" / 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 / 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 / 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 / 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 / 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 . Virtual Tours and Talks Nov 20, 2025, 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM CST Movie Makeup and Toupees in 1920s Chicago / Register Nov 20, 2025, 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM CST World Virtual Tours Explore makeup from cinema's earliest days to the present, including 1920s Chicago’s famed toupee maker and his Hollywood-inspired creations Dec 04, 2025, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM CST Private: Holiday Chaos: Behind the Scenes of "National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation" / Learn more Dec 04, 2025, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM CST Private Event (Zoom) Yule love it! Unwrap the holiday magic and dive into the world of the Griswold family Dec 08, 2025, 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM CST Private: Festivus 101: A Virtual Celebration for the Rest of Us / Learn more Dec 08, 2025, 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM CST Zoom (Private Event) Become an expert on Festivus and its place in pop culture Dec 09, 2025, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM CST Women and Early Cinema in Chicago: Untold Stories Behind the Silent Screen / Register Dec 09, 2025, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM CST CJE Community Days Explore hidden stories of women who shaped early Chicago cinema, with HD footage of key locations where they lived and worked Dec 18, 2025, 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM CST Festivus 101: A Virtual Celebration for the Rest of Us / Register Dec 18, 2025, 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM CST Winnetka-Northfield Library Become an expert on Festivus and its place in pop culture Dec 22, 2025, 6:00 PM – 6:45 PM CST While You Were Sleeping in Chicago: A Holiday Stroll / Register Dec 22, 2025, 6:00 PM – 6:45 PM CST YouTube Live Visit the suburban Chicago village where the romantic comedy "While You Were Sleeping” was filmed Dec 29, 2025, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM CST While You Were Sleeping in Chicago: A Holiday Stroll / Register Dec 29, 2025, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM CST World Virtual Tours (Zoom) Visit the suburban Chicago village where the romantic comedy "While You Were Sleeping” was filmed Jan 26, 2026, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM CST The First Ferris Wheel in Film / Register Jan 26, 2026, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM CST World Virtual Tours (Zoom) Travel back to the Chicago World's Fair of 1893 and experience the first Ferris wheel through film and virtual reality Jan 28, 2026, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM CST The Oscars and Chicago / Register Jan 28, 2026, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM CST (Zoom) Morton Grove Public Library Review Oscar's history as it relates to Hollywood and Chicago Feb 03, 2026, 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM CST Mardi Gras and Movies in the Midwest / Register Feb 03, 2026, 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM CST (Zoom) Winnetka-Northfield Library District Explore the history of Mardi Gras and its onscreen depictions, including some from Chicago film companies Apr 15, 2026, 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM CDT From Ferris to the Frontlines: Chicago's Art Institute and Grant Park in the Movies / Register Apr 15, 2026, 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM CDT (Zoom) Cary Area Public Library From Ferris Bueller to political drama, see the Art Institute of Chicago and Grant Park through the lens of film Registration links to dates in the far future may not yet be available. Check back, or subscribe to be notified .

Art of Ferris Bueller is not currently available for booking. Art of Ferris Bueller Art of Ferris Bueller is not currently available for booking. All Talks About The Art of Ferris Bueller is not currently available for booking. If you’d like to be notified when it returns, please reach out via our contact form . Thanks! Request Talk

Review Oscar's history as it relates to Hollywood and Chicago The Oscars and Chicago Review Oscar's history as it relates to Hollywood and Chicago All Talks About Join us for The Oscars and Chicago as we consider Hollywood's most prestigious awards and their unexpected connections to the Windy City. We'll start this hour-long talk with a backstory of the Oscars, including why and how they were created. Then, we'll look at Chicago’s links to this Los Angeles-based event, focusing specifically on the statuette and a few industry game-changers from Chicago. Finally, we'll wrap up the program with a (virtual) tour of Chicago’s Grant Park, where a recent Best Picture nominee spent considerable time filming. Dust off your black dress or tuxedo! The Oscars and Chicago is about to begin. Request Talk Out of gallery

Virtual Tours Virtual Tours Virtual Tours Title Title Virtual Tours Discover Chicago film virtually through participation, HD video, and other media Available Tours What Is a Virtual Tour? Available Tours

Consider what three Chicago-based Christmas movies say about social class Chicago, Christmas Movies, and Class Consider what three Chicago-based Christmas movies say about social class All Talks About National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (1989), Home Alone (1990), and While You Were Sleeping (1995) sit amongst the most beloved American Christmas movies. Set in Chicago at Christmastime, these three mainstream Hollywood comedies have entertained audiences for decades. But have you ever thought about why? Which characters make you laugh or cry? And what does their social class—lower, middle, or upper—have to do with your reaction? Let’s find out in this hour-long talk on class stereotypes in Chicago-based Christmas movies! Request Talk

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. Cooley High Cooley High (1975) is a coming-of-age comedy-drama set in 1960s Chicago. It follows high school friends Preach (Glynn Turman) and Cochise (Lawrence Hilton-Jacobs) as they navigate life, dreams, and hardships in Chicago’s Cabrini-Green housing projects . The above screenshot marks a pivotal moment in Cooley High , shifting the film’s tone from lighthearted to deeply emotional. In this long shot, Cochise, a promising athlete, is tragically killed under the ‘L’ tracks by neighborhood hoodlums. Preach finds his friend’s lifeless body and screams for help, but the screeching train tires above drown out his cries. A touching funeral scene follows. Cochise’s funeral is filmed at Burr Oak Cemetery in Alsip, IL, the final resting place for thousands of South Chicago residents and their families. Over the heartbreaking scene, which you can watch below, the song “It’s So Hard to Say Goodbye to Yesterday ” plays. If you are of a certain age and recognize the song outside of Cooley High , it’s likely because you remember the a cappella version recorded by Boyz II Men in 1991 . 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