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  • Women and Early Cinema in Chicago: Untold Stories Behind the Silent Screen | Chicago Movie Tours

    Upcoming Talks See where Kelli will be speaking next—online and in person. Sep 16, 2025, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM CDT From Ferris to the Frontlines: Chicago's Art Institute and Grant Park in the Movies / Bridgeview Public Library, 7840 W 79th St, Bridgeview, IL 60455, USA Learn more Sep 16, 2025, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM CDT Bridgeview Public Library, 7840 W 79th St, Bridgeview, IL 60455, USA From Ferris Bueller to political drama, see the Art Institute of Chicago and Grant Park through the lens of film 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 09, 2025, 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM CST Behind the Scenes: 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 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 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

  • The Package | Movies Filmed in Chicago | One-Shot Wednesdays

    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 Package The Package is a 1989 political thriller set during the Cold War. The U.S. and Soviet governments are on the verge of signing a nuclear disarmament treaty when a high-ranking U.S. General is assassinated. Gene Hackman’s character is blamed for the lack of security and, therefore, the general’s murder. As punishment, he is assigned to escort an Army sergeant (Tommy Lee Jones/Kevin Crowley) back to the U.S. for court martial. The Package 's opening was shot in Berlin, Germany. The rest was shot in and around Chicago. Locations here include Lake Forest Academy (as a German chalet), the Field Museum, the South Shore Country Club, Grant Park, O’Hare International Airport, and Chicago’s Union Station . This medium-long shot of Tommy Lee Jones takes place on the historic oak benches in Chicago’s Union Station . His character is disguised as an Anglican priest and has just received a suitcase containing a sniper’s rifle. As the story’s villain, he will not use this weapon for good. A native Texan, Jones fondly recalls his time shooting The Package in Chicago—and he even wears the clothing to prove it : “I, my wife, and my little boy love Chicago. It’s a fine city, an all-American city. A considerable amount of history has been written there. It’s windy and cold in the wintertime, but we don’t worry about that — it’s hot and dry in Texas in the summer.” (The Sacramento Bee , Sept 1989) 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

  • Waiver of Liability | Chicago Movie Tours

    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

  • Chicago and Movies on the Mississippi River | Talks and Programs | Chicago Movie Tours

    Visit Vicksburg, Mississippi, as you learn about its ties to Chicago and movies Chicago and Movies on the Mississippi River Visit Vicksburg, Mississippi, as you learn about its ties to Chicago and movies All Talks About Hit the road with Chicago Movie Tours! Filled with original HD video footage, this unique hour-long talk takes you on location to four spots in historic Vicksburg, Mississippi. Specifically, you will: Explore the Mississippi River and magnolia trees at sunset. See where the movie O Brother, Where Art Thou? filmed a prominent scene. Hear about a Chicago-based silent movie filmed inside a Vicksburg military park. Experience markers and a film role dedicated to Chicago blues musician Willie Dixon. Anyone who loves uncovering surprising connections between cities, cinema, and culture will enjoy this talk. Request Talk

  • The Color of Money | Movies Filmed in Chicago | One-Shot Wednesdays

    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 Color of Money The Color of Money is a 1986 film directed by Martin Scorsese. It serves as a sequel to the 1961 movie The Hustler . Starring Paul Newman, Tom Cruise, and Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio, The Color of Money follows "Fast Eddie" Felson (Newman) and his protege, Vincent (Cruise), as they hustle their way to a nine-ball tournament . In this low-angle shot, Vince is in the middle of a game of pool, showboating in front of a crowd. His name is stamped across his t-shirt, illustrating Cruise’s “big and bold” performance, as one reviewer puts it in 1986: “Cruise knows how to make his props work for him — the silly 1950s pompadour, the shirt from the toy store he works at with “VINCE” in big block letters, the playful way he wields the pool cue. He’s not afraid to color Vince, to show you how he’s vain and impulsive and even a little stupid.” — Paul Attanasio, 21 October 1986 Several of Cruise’s pool scenes, like this one, were filmed inside Fitzgerald’s, a historic bar in Berwyn, IL, about 10 miles outside Chicago. Watch the scene below, and then check out Fitzgerald’s The Color of Money memorabilia in this Facebook post . 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 | Chicago Movie Tours

    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.

  • The Vow | Movies Filmed in Chicago | One-Shot Wednesdays

    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 Vow Today's #OneShotWed comes from the romantic drama The Vow (2012) and takes place under the Bean (aka. Cloud Gate) in Millennium Park. In his review, Roger Ebert laments the couple, played by Channing Tatum and Rachel McAdams, is rarely seen alongside any Chicago landmarks since the movie is primarily filmed in Toronto. Still, we should keep our eyes peeled for "one nice shot of the newlyweds running from the Art Institute across a footbridge into Millennium Park and ending up under the Bean." Watch the scene below. 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

  • Home Alone | Movies Filmed in Chicago | One-Shot Wednesdays

    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. Home Alone From Home Alone (1990), this is a medium shot of a cashier, Sally, holding a bag of army men labeled Attack Force. Notice the slightly low camera angle and Sally’s downcast eyes, suggesting she is interacting with someone shorter than she. Also, Christmas lights, garland, and wreaths hang behind her in the store. Hopefully, those directorial decisions hinted to you that we’re likely looking at a Chicago-based Christmas movie that may involve a child. And indeed we are. Mistakenly left alone at Christmastime, eight-year-old Kevin McAllister (Macaulay Culkin) must defend his home against a pair of burglars. During the process, Kevin ventures out to the grocery store, where he adds this bag of army men to his list. Amusingly, he tells Sally, “It’s for the kids.” Did you know actor-comedian Robin Williams played with little toy soldiers too while he lived here in Chicago? As a child in Chicago’s north suburbs, Williams staged battles with thousands of toy soldiers, his mother recalls. In fact, the young Williams even wrote the soldiers' dialogue, foreshadowing his performance style of carrying on conversations with himself through multiple voices. 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

  • Prison Break | Movies Filmed in Chicago | One-Shot Wednesdays

    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. Prison Break This long shot, filmed at a low angle, comes from the second episode of the TV series Prison Break (2005-2009). Two women, a lawyer (Veronica) and a witness to a murder (Leticia), meet covertly near Crown Fountain in Chicago’s Millennium Park . The meeting does not last long, however. The witness is convinced she was followed and runs away. Her hunch is correct: later in the episode, she is kidnapped and killed. Prison Break follows Michael Scofield, a structural engineer, and his brother Lincoln Burrows, who has been sentenced to death for a crime he did not commit (hence the lawyer/witness meeting above). To save Lincoln, Michael deliberately gets himself incarcerated, using a plan hidden in his full-body tattoo. Yes, a full-body tattoo . (The show is better than it sounds!) Much of Prison Break ’s first season is filmed in and around Chicago. Scenes depicting Fox River State Penitentiary, the fictional prison where Michael and Lincoln are sentenced, take place in Old Joliet Prison in Joliet, IL, where Chicago Movie Tours also gives walking tours . Prison Break ’s first two episodes aired August 29, 2005, and were watched by roughly 10.5 million viewers in the U.S. While on air, the series continued to draw viewers here and around the globe. And when it began streaming on Netflix in 2024, the show raced to the #1 spot, now discovered by a new audience. 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

  • Southside with You | Movies Filmed in Chicago | One-Shot Wednesdays

    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. Southside with You An account of Barack and Michelle Obama's first date, Southside with You was filmed in Chicago in the summer of 2015. Today's #OneShotWed takes place under the Tiffany dome in the Chicago Cultural Center. According to Architectural Digest , for this scene, the characters were supposed to attend an art show at the Art Institute of Chicago. But the cast and crew were unable to film there. So in the end, "the Chicago Cultural Center served as a replacement, and the crew created a show within the space." 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

  • The Trial of the Chicago 7 | Movies Filmed in Chicago | One-Shot Wednesdays

    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 Trial of the Chicago 7 Today's #OneShotWed comes from The Trial of the Chicago 7 , a movie set in Chicago but filmed only partially here. Start at min. 18:40 in Netflix's behind-the-scenes video below. You'll learn how Grant Park—including set pieces like protest signs, Chicago police cars, and ammo—was transformed for the two weeks that production took place in the city. 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

  • The Bear | Movies Filmed in Chicago | One-Shot Wednesdays

    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 Bear This screenshot comes from The Bear (FX), the episode "Forks" (2.7). It reinforces the series' theme that time is precious and hesitation has consequences. Clocks, calendars, and time dominate The Bear , which is shot entirely in Chicago. In the show's pilot, a wall clock is literally shown 4 times in 3 seconds. In this episode, "Forks," digital clocks, sitting on bedside tables and hanging on glazed tiled walls, constantly fill the frame. In season 2 in general, The Bear 's characters are always up against time, scrambling to open a new restaurant in 12 weeks. They must complete renovations, secure and train staff, and complete a menu. They must also get appropriate permits, which the tense 10-second countdown of the fire suppression test reminds us. In The Bear , every second does indeed count. 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

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