What’s the ultimate Chicago movie? Is it obvious, like “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off,” or seminal, like “Cooley High?” Maybe it’s subtle, like “The Weather Man.” Or perhaps it’s “Widows,” all wrapped up in aldermanic conspiracies.
It depends what Chicago, and movies, mean to you.
On today’s podcast, three movie snobs with entirely different tastes debate the best Chicago movies.
👇 Also, news out of City Hall and malls that aren’t dead yet!
What Chicago's Talking About
City Council Fails to Overturn Johnson’s Curfew Veto
In June, Mayor Brandon Johnson vetoed an ordinance that would have allowed the police superintendent to set snap curfews for minors. Fewer than 34 alders — the minimum needed — voted to overturn that veto Wednesday. [WTTW]
Illinois Comptroller Susana Mendoza Not Seeking Reelection
Illinois Comptroller Susana Mendoza announced Wednesday that she will not seek a fourth term. During the news conference, she also slammed Johnson as "unsuccessful," seeming to indicate that she’s open for a mayoral run. Mendoza assumed her position as the state’s top fiscal officer in 2016. At that time, she was a fierce critic of then-Gov. Bruce Rauner. [Tribune 🔒]
Artis Venue to Close Following River North Shooting
Clearing out Old Orchard’s Forever 21 shortly before the chain closed for good.(Emmi Mack / Hey Chicago)
Once upon a time, Water Tower Place was a beacon for Chicago shoppers: eight glittering floors of commerce, anchored by massive retailers like Macy’s (formerly Marshall Field’s) and American Girl Place.
Downtown shoppers will find some solace in The Shops at North Bridge, a relatively new mall, though the stores are decidedly high-end. In August, the mall will host Pizza City Fest.
Every Northwest-Sider knows the HIP. Is it as hip as it once was? Absolutely not. But it’s convenient, blending big box chains like Target alongside smaller mall classics.
Remaining department store(s): Kohl’s (which includes a Sephora but does not accept Sephora returns) and Nordstrom Rack. (Are we counting the rack? Let’s count it.)
In the Southwest burbs, Chicago Ridge Mall offers the quintessential mall experience right down to the grub: Cinnabon, Auntie Anne’s and Wetzel’s Pretzels, Dippin’ Dots, Gloria Jean’s, Sbarro …
I go to Old Orchard constantly. It’s the closest stop with everything I need as a young woman addicted to fast fashion. (Sorry. I’m still mourning Forever 21.) Also, they just opened an Urban Outfitters and a Puttshack with crazy cocktails!
You can’t talk malls without talking Woodfield. With close to 300 stores, it’s among the largest malls in the country. It’s the very largest in Illinois, followed by Oakbrook Center, which is also worth the trip.
Remaining department store(s): Macy’s, Nordstrom, JCPenney
Lincolnwood Town Center is not what it used to be. But if you like walking laps in dead malls or have a soft spot for Hot Topic, this is a solid place to kill time. (I usually score some interesting, cheap pieces at the indie stores.) It’s accessible, too: the last stop on the Kimball bus going north.
Remaining department store(s): Kohl’s
Neighborhood Shoutouts
Every once in a while, we like to highlight recs from City Cast Chicago Neighbors. To plug your favorite business or nonprofit, become a member today.
This week, Joe D. is shouting out Escencia Urban KitcheninLakeview: “This family-owned restaurant never disappoints. The food is amazing and the service is great. I have been here many times and I am always happy when I leave. They do brunch and lunch. This place is always packed, so plan ahead. I am told by someone I trust that they have some of the best chilaquiles in the city.”
As a chilaquiles fiend, Joe, I thank you for this shoutout.
💥 Flash! New speed camera alert! The city is adding six new cameras: two in West Lawn, one in Pasteur Park, one near LaVillita Park, one in McKinley Park, and one in Roseland.
