One-Shot Wednesday
On Wednesdays, guess the Chicago-based movie or television show from one screenshot.
The Untouchables (1987)
This establishing shot from the 1987 gangster movie The Untouchables showcases several historic Chicago buildings. For example, the Chicago Board of Trade Building, that Art Deco skyscraper with a clock in the center, is in the background. The Rookery Building, serving as the movie’s police headquarters, is at left with the Chicago Flag hanging from it.
At this point in the narrative, Eliot Ness (Kevin Costner) has just formed his team of “untouchables” to bring down Al Capone in Prohibition-era Chicago. If you squint, in the middle ground, you can see three of the "untouchables" crossing the recently rain-soaked street.
But let’s return to the Chicago flag for a moment and discuss what it represents.
On the Chicago flag, the two sky blue stripes represent Lake Michigan and the branches of the Chicago River. The three white stripes represent the N, W, and S sides of the city.
The four red stars in the middle represent major events in Chicago’s history:
establishment of Fort Dearborn, where Chicago now sits
Since The Untouchables is set in 1930, the Chicago flags captured onscreen should only have 2 stars like this one. Next time you watch the movie, keep your eye out and see if you notice any inconsistencies with the Chicago flag!
Welcome to One-Shot Wednesday!
Think you’re a Chicago screen buff?
On Wednesdays, we post one still from a movie or TV show filmed or set in the Windy City. Your mission? Guess the title!
You've already seen this week’s image above. If you're feeling nostalgic, explore the full archive of past challenges to keep the fun rolling.