Hollywood has tapped Chicago museums for roles in a number of films. Here are just 10 in which Chicago museums have a cameo:
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“Ali” (late 2001): In the upcoming film, director Michael Mann takes Will Smith (Ali) outside the Field Museum of Natural History and into the Museum of Broadcast Communications.
“Chain Reaction” (1996): Keanu Reeves, with help from director Andrew Davis, has a logistically challenged chase scene as he races between the Museum of Science and Industry and the Field Museum.
“Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” (1986): Matthew Broderick and friends visit the Art Institute of Chicago to view masterpieces by Marc Chagall and Georges Seurat.
“Flatliners” (1990): The exterior of the Museum of Science and Industry has a cameo as the building in which medical students Julia Roberts, Kiefer Sutherland, Kevin Bacon and Billy Baldwin conduct their flatlining experiments.
“Music Box” (1990): This drama from director Costa-Gavras has Jessica Lange, Armin Mueller-Stahl and the Field Museum in starring roles. The John G. Shedd Aquarium also had a bit part: The office of the Shedd’s former director, with its 15-foot ceilings, huge oak desk and vintage leather furniture, served as a judge’s chambers.
“The Package” (1989): Gene Hackman and Tommy Lee Jones share screen time in this thriller with the Field Museum, which serves as government offices in the nation’s capital.
“The Relic” (1997): Horror film starring Penelope Ann Miller as a researcher and the Field Museum. Best part: When the DNA monster crashes a fancy gala that moviemakers staged in the museum’s main hall.
“She’s Having a Baby” (1988): John Hughes directs Kevin Bacon and Elizabeth McGovern as well as the Field Museum, with Bacon checking out its diorama about the birth of man.
“Straight Talk” (1992): Dolly Parton, James Woods and a host of finned folks get camera time at the Shedd Aquarium. The highlight? Dolly crooning to the fishes.
“V.I. Warshawski” (1991): Chicago author Sara Paretsky’s private eye, played by Kathleen Turner, turns up at the Chicago Historical Society back steps.
Source: Illinois Film Office