Critics Classics is presented by the Chicago Film Critics Association and takes place the first Wednesday of the month throughout the year. The screenings take place at Classic Cinemas in Elk Grove Village where they screen a variety of classics during matinees and evening screenings. After the evening screenings, the cinematic excitement is elevated thanksto a discussion led by a critic from the Chicago Film Critics Association. I have been fortunate my schedule has allowed me to attend the last three Critics Classics Screenings. Each movie experience followed by the discussion, has been cinematically enticing.

The first recent screening was the 1985 classic Clue. This mystery has humor, and the classic attitude of the characterizations are always witty and joyful. Watching this movie again was a hilarious and thought-provoking experience. In true murder mystery style, there are many pieces to the puzzle. The most invigorating part, however, was learning more from the discussion with the critics. I learned that there were many different endings to the movie. In fact, some formats of the film had different endings, and some never made changes. The theory of the changes in Clue made the film extremely entertaining and provided an enjoyable revisit to my early era of cinematic appreciation.

The second experience was the 1984 classic, The Karate Kid. For fans who love the series Cobra Kai, this movie offered a real treat. Revisiting the film made me realize why Cobra Kai followed diverse approaches in its series. What was even more interesting to me was learning from the discussion about the variety of approaches used in casting for the film. I also valued learning about the cultural side to discipline explored in the movie. Ultimately, the fact that this film experience reminds its young audience to find a positive inspiration in order to help overcome their struggles impacted me most.

The third (and the most crowded and nostalgic) was the 1991 classic, Terminator 2: Judgment Day. This movie made me feel I was experiencing something new for the very first time. I forgot about how this sequel to the franchise took Terminator to a whole new level. The crowd was really into the movie, and everyone knew the quotes which made it a true jam for Terminator fans. The discussion on the film’s budget, James Cameron’s directing techniques, and the in-depth use of technology were all captivating. Terminator 2: Judgment Day was a rollercoaster ride for cinema enthusiasts and critics like me.

The Select Pix Critics Classics at Elk Grove is a monthly experience that I do my best to attend. It keeps me in me in my cinematic mindset and never disappoints. If it’s a night where I do not have a press screening it is always a nice escape. I highly recommend other film lovers check their calendars and try to attend. There are many more classic events with discussions ahead. Hope to see you there!