Since the mid 1960s Tom Palazzolo has produced over 50 films that explore the complex, multi-faceted, and often overlooked rituals that unfold across Chicago’s neighborhoods.

Palazzolo honed his experimental style at the School of the Art Institute studying and working with visual artists associated with the Monster Roster as well as prominent Chicago Imagists.

Join the filmmaker for a screening and discussion of some of his short experimental narrative films. Post-screening Q&A moderated by Jim Dempsey, co-curator of Monster Roster.

Free. Seating is limited and offered on a first come, first served basis.

Film descriptions

Jerry's Deli
A trip to Jerry's Deli where abuse of the customers is served up with corned beef.

Tattooed Lady of Riverview Park
The featured attraction of the Freak Show at the once landmark Riverview Amusement Park is an elderly lady with over 200 tattoos. Her story is interwoven with images of the ill-fated park.

Down Clark St.
This film chronicles a time past and a compassionate and sometimes humorous look at the forgotten characters that populated Clark Street in the 60's.

O' Me on LSD
A surreal trip thru the Chicago of the mind, filed with twists, turns and darkness.

Love It Leave It
A collage of street protest from the 68 convention, along with a car show and the miss nude universe contest.

Presented in collaboration with the Film Studies Center.