31-01-2025
Chicago Weekend Guide: Oscar prep, Groundhog Day and tasty doughnuts
Film buffs may be watching what's coming out of Sundance right now, but the Oscar race is hot, with the awards show a little more than a month out.
The big picture (literally): Some of the Oscar-nominated films are streaming, but there's something special about seeing it on the big screen, in a special format, with movie theater popcorn, sharing in the magic of cinema.
Here are some opportunities to catch up on some of this year's nominees, as well as some of the films that got snubbed, before the March 2 ceremony.
Nominated film screenings:
"The Brutalist"
Playing in 70mm at Music Box Theatre with a special cocktail served at the bar.
"I'm Still Here"
Gene Siskel Film Center, AMC River East, Alamo Wrigleyville and AMC Evanston
"Anora"
Facets, from Feb. 14 through March 1.
Snub screenings:
"Hard Truths"
Critics can't believe actress Marianne Jean-Baptiste didn't get a nod.
AMC River East, Classic Cinemas in Oak Park, AMC Ford City and more.
"The Last Showgirl"
Some thought Pamela Anderson would get her very first nom, but it didn't happen.
Landmark at the Glen, Glen Art Theatre Cinemark and Seven Bridges in Woodridge
Reality check: This is just a sampling of what's playing where. Check Fandango or your favorite theater's website.
What's next: It's not too early to plan your Oscar viewing parties!
Midwest Coast Brewing Company and Film & Froth
6:45pm at Midwest Brewing Company in West Loop — Free
Oscar Party
6pm at Arrogant Frog in Lincoln Park — Free
More things to do this weekend in Chicago:
🧊 Ice Festival
Bundle up and step out to watch live ice carvings.
Friday 5:30-7:30pm and Saturday and Sunday 11am–3pm in Downers Grove.
Cost: Free
🎫 Levity
Catch the upbeat electronic trio for their "Full Circle" tour.
Friday 9pm at Radius in Pilsen.
Cost: Tickets start at $97
🍩 Stan's Doughnut Fest
This one's for the diehards! Taste the doughnuts you can't get in shops like Cannoli Bombolini, Blueberry Fritter, Red Velvet Oreo and more.
Friday 11am-3pm at Stan's Donut Pop-Up in River North.
Cost: Tickets start at $25
🎤 Selena: The Show
Celebrate the beloved "Queen of Tejano music."
Saturday 9pm-midnight at 115 Bourbon Street in Merrionette Park.
Cost: Tickets start at $10
Groundhog Days
The annual fest is a celebration of the classic movie and where it all began. This year, there is a cocktail party, walking tour, a screening of "Groundhog Day,"a pub crawl and more.
Thursday-Sunday in Woodstock.
Cost: Prices and times vary
📖 Neko Case: "The Harder I Fight the More I Love You"
The musician, songwriter and onetime Hideout bartender discusses her new memoir.
Tuesday at 7pm at Studebaker Theater in the Loop.
