Join us for a special screening and discussion of the acclaimed film CHICAGO 10.
Written and directed by Brett Morgen, CHICAGO 10 tells the story of anti-war protestors who were put on trial after the 1968 Democratic National Convention in Chicago. It presents contemporary history with artistry and creative vision, mixing bold and original animation with extraordinary archival footage that explores the build-up to and unraveling of the Chicago Conspiracy Trial.
This program is free and open to the public. Reservations are required and can be made online, by e-mail at events@prairie.org, or at 312.422.5580.
Before the film, we will also screen the grand prize winner from the “Looking for Democracy” Short Film Contest, “Hope in America.” Watch the film on YouTube!
At the 1968 Democratic Convention, protestors, denied permits for demonstrations, repeatedly clashed with the Chicago Police Department, who waged a week-long terror campaign that resulted in riots witnessed live by a television audience of over 50 million. The events had a polarizing effect on the country.
Eschewing talking-head interviews and omniscient narration, CHICAGO 10 allows the viewer to experience the drama and tragedy of Chicago in a unique and dynamic style. The film moves back and forth from the streets of Chicago to the courtroom at an exciting and accelerating pace that brings the past into the present. Ultimately, CHICAGO 10 is more than a historical drama; it is a new style of documentary with a visceral and emotional core.
WHOSE LENS IS IT? REFLECTING ’68
After the film, there will be a discussion examining the subjective role the filmmaker plays when documenting history. How does the perspective differ when looking through the eyes of race, gender, political persuasion, and across generations?
This discussion will feature:
- Kevin Gosztola, Youth filmmaker and activist
- Sam Greenlee, Author and film producer
- Judy Hoffman, Filmmaker
- Tracye Matthews, Associate Director, Center for the Study of Race, Politics, and Culture (moderator)
This program is presented by The Public Square, Independent Television Service (ITVS), AREA Chicago, the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs, and WTTW Channel 11.
For more information, call 312.422.5580. The film runs approximately 100 minutes.