The Gene Siskel Film Center is presenting Chicago with a month-long holiday present—a retrospective of iconic cinema goddess Marilyn Monroe slated to run Dec. 3-Jan. 5. 'Merry Marilyn' is the title of the series, which presents 10 of the platinum blonde's most beloved films—many in sparkling, new prints. Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, Monroe's fun-filled musical that co-stars Jane Russell and includes 'Diamonds are a Girl's Best Friend,' perhaps the quintessential Monroe number, kicks off the series. At a screening of The Misfits, Monroe's last completed film, Sony archivist John Kirk will appear in person to introduce the newly restored print that will be shown, and discuss film preservation.
The schedule for the rest of the line-up ( in alpha order ) :
Bus Stop: Monday, Dec. 26, 5 p.m. and Wednesday, Dec. 28, 6 p.m.
Don't Bother to Knock: Saturday, Dec. 10, 6 p.m. and Monday, Dec. 12, 6:15 p.m.
Gentlemen Prefer Blondes: Saturday, Dec. 3, 3 p.m. and Tuesday, Dec. 6, 6:15 p.m.
How to Marry a Millionaire: Monday, Jan. 2, 5:15 p.m. and Wednesday, Jan. 4, 6 p.m.
Let's Make Love: Saturday, Dec. 17, 4:45 p.m. and Tuesday, Dec. 20, 6 p.m.
The Misfits: Saturday, Dec. 10, 3 p.m. and Thursday, Dec. 15, 6 p.m.
Monkey Business: Saturday, Dec. 3, 4:45 p.m. and Monday, Dec. 5, 6 p.m.
Niagara: Saturday, Dec. 17, 3 p.m. and Wednesday, Dec. 21, 6 p.m.
The Seven Year Itch: Monday, Dec. 26, 3 p.m. and Thursday, Dec. 29, 6 p.m.
Some Like It Hot: Monday, Jan. 2, 3 p.m. and Thursday, Jan. 5, 8 p.m.
See www.siskelfilmcenter.com or 312-846-2600.