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Upcoming Talks See where Kelli will be speaking next—online and in person. Feb 16, 2026, 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM CST Private: Black Movie History in Chicago: Cinematic Milestones and Sacred Grounds / Clarendale Six Corners, 4715 W Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL 60641, USA Learn more Feb 16, 2026, 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM CST Clarendale Six Corners, 4715 W Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL 60641, USA Explore Black film history in Chicago through select movies and sites that connect them 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! Still Waters, Sudden Death: Chicago’s Deadliest Disaster Onscreen Examine the SS Eastland tragedy through its screen portrayals—from newsreels and documentaries to home movies and a Disney show Learn More View All Talks

On virtual walking tours, discover Chicago and movies through real-time participation, HD video, interactive maps, and other unique media forms. Virtual Tours Discover Chicago and film virtually through participation, HD video, and other media. Jan 26, 2026 7:00 PM The First Ferris Wheel in Film Travel back to the Chicago World's Fair of 1893 and experience the first Ferris wheel through film and virtual reality DETAILS Feb 17, 2026 7:00 PM Chicago Movies in Winter Explore snowy Chicago movie locations featured in "Groundhog Day," "The Breakfast Club," and more DETAILS Feb 4, 2026 12:30 AM Mardi Gras and Movies in the Midwest Explore the history of Mardi Gras and its onscreen depictions, including some from Chicago film companies DETAILS Mar 26, 2026 6:00 PM Reel Resilience: Chicago Movie Theaters and the 1918 Flu Pandemic Learn about three Chicago movie theaters that survived the 1918 flu pandemic. DETAILS Feb 5, 2026 7:00 PM Chicago and Movies on the Mississippi River Visit Vicksburg, Mississippi, as you learn about its ties to Chicago and movies. DETAILS Apr 16, 2026 12:00 AM 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 DETAILS Watch a Virtual Tour What's Included Chicago Movie Tours' virtual tours and events incorporate the following, when applicable, to bring the subject matter to life: HD video High-quality photos Expertly designed animated slideshows Clips and screengrabs Maps (to orient you as you "travel" with us) Vintage newspaper articles and ads Classic movie fan magazine excerpts Well-researched commentary Additionally, we always include opportunities for audience contribution.

Through Chicago movies, these mini courses teach you terms used to describe film production and the art of filmmaking. It's Film 101, Chicago style! All classes are offered virtually and by a Ph.D. who legit taught this stuff for a living. No mini courses are running at the moment, but you can watch clips from previous courses below. Watch Now Learn how to watch movies, Chicago style! • pickles optional • Why So Low? Why does The Dark Knight film Heath Ledger's Joker from such low angles? Why the Silence? What's the purpose of the art museum montage in Ferris Bueller's Day Off? Why So Pasty? Why is Charlie Chaplin's makeup so white in the comedy His New Job? Through Chicago movies, master terminology used to describe film production and the art of filmmaking. Become an active movie-watcher with us and apply that new kno wledge to your favorite films! Classes run 30-60 min. All classes are offered virtually and by a PhD who actually taught this stuff for a living. Watch a Mini Course Clip! Play Video Play Video Play Video Play Video Play Video Play Video Play Video Play Video

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 .

Every Wednesday, guess the Chicago-based movie or television show from one screenshot. Come back each week to see if you can guess the shot, or 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. Which title is correct? The Boondock Saints The Fugitive St. Patrick: The Irish Legend Leprechaun 3 Answer & Trivia Answer opens in new tab Previous Archive Next

Visit our screenshot archive of movies filmed in Chicago. Play the screenshots you missed! ARCHIVE One-Shot Wednesday Come back each week to guess the screenshot . Or play the ones you missed below!

FAQs for Talks Get answers about topics, bookings, tech requirements, and more. Events Past / Filter by Title The Art of Ferris Bueller Sunday, January 11, 2026 at 5:30:00 PM UTC While You Were Sleeping in Chicago: A Holiday Stroll Tuesday, December 30, 2025 at 6:00:00 PM UTC The Art of Ferris Bueller Sunday, December 28, 2025 at 8:00:00 PM UTC The Art of Ferris Bueller Sunday, December 28, 2025 at 5:30:00 PM UTC While You Were Sleeping in Chicago: A Holiday Stroll Tuesday, December 23, 2025 at 12:00:00 AM UTC The Art of Ferris Bueller Saturday, December 20, 2025 at 5:30:00 PM UTC Festivus 101: A Virtual Celebration for the Rest of Us Friday, December 19, 2025 at 12:30:00 AM UTC Holiday Chaos: Behind the Scenes of "National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation" Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at 12:30:00 AM UTC Women and Early Cinema in Chicago: Untold Stories Behind the Silent Screen Tuesday, December 9, 2025 at 7:00:00 PM UTC The Art of Ferris Bueller Saturday, November 22, 2025 at 5:30:00 PM UTC

Discover Chicago’s rich movie history through our public guided walking tours, led by a film expert with a Ph.D. Public Tours Discover Chicago’s movie history through public walking tours, led by a film expert Pick Your Tour The Art of Ferris Bueller is the only walking tour currently running to the public. Other tours resume in the spring. The Art of Ferris Bueller Movies and TV in Union Station Chicago and Movies Underground From Fairground to Film Set Wizard of Oz in Chicago Chicago and Movies in Prison Public Tours FAQs What Sets These Tours Apart? Led by a Film Expert Unlike other tours in Chicago, ours are led by an film expert with a PhD. She offers you unparalleled commentary on moviemaking and the city's film legacy. Small Group, Personalized Experience Enjoy a more personal, intimate experience with small group sizes to ensure you get the most out of your tour. Behind-the-Scenes Insights Learn how Chicago’s architecture, streets, and skyline shape memorable scenes. Get insider stories about how filmmakers bring those scenes to life. Great for Locals and Tourists Alike Whether you're a long-time Chicagoan or visiting the city for the first time, you'll discover something new about the city’s starring role in Hollywood. Iconic Film Locations Stand in the exact spots where legendary movie scenes were filmed, from Gotham City in The Dark Knight to the marble staircase in The Untouchables . What Movies Are Featured? From Ferris Bueller’s Day Off and The Untouchables to Fargo and South Side , our walking tours will immerse you in scenes from classic and modern Chicago-based movies and TV shows. Looking for a Private Tour? Want to enjoy our popular movie walking tours with just your group? Book a private version of any of our existing tours, and experience Chicago’s iconic film locations at your convenience. Book a Private or Group Tour

Learn about three Chicago movie theaters that survived the 1918 flu pandemic Chicago, Movies, and the 1918 Pandemic Learn about three Chicago movie theaters that survived the 1918 flu pandemic All Talks About In 1918, Chicago movie theaters faced an unprecedented challenge as the flu pandemic disrupted daily life and shuttered public spaces across the city. Yet some movie houses found ways to endure—and their buildings still stand today! In this talk, Kelli takes you, via HD footage, to three silent-era Chicago movie theaters that survived the 1918 flu pandemic. Along the way, she offers a brief history of the so-called Spanish Flu, with subtle connections to more recent global experiences such as COVID. 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! Chicago, Movies, and the 1918 Pandemic Learn about three Chicago movie theaters that survived the 1918 flu pandemic 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 Movies in Winter Explore snowy Chicago movie locations featured in "Groundhog Day," "The Breakfast Club," and more Learn More View All Talks

Explore snowy Chicago movie locations featured in "Groundhog Day," "The Breakfast Club," and more Chicago Movies in Winter Explore snowy Chicago movie locations featured in "Groundhog Day," "The Breakfast Club," and more All Talks About Bundle up for a journey through Chicago's chilliest movie moments! Join Kelli for a free virtual walking tour highlighting Chicago movie locations captured in snow or chilly weather. This unique HD video experience features Groundhog Day , The Breakfast Club , Child's Play , and Judas and the Black Messiah . So grab your hot cocoa, log on, and let’s hit the virtual streets of Chicago’s "coolest" movies. Request Talk