This special screening of ROY’S WORLD: BARRY GIFFORD’S CHICAGO is hosted at our Chicago Filmmakers Firehouse Cinema.

Saturday, August 5, at 7:00 PM CST
1326 W Hollywood Ave, Chicago

Roy's World is like opening a time capsule, with all the bewilderment and marvel amongst the spectators who yearn to glimpse a different time. It's exotic and old, yet remnants have not been forgotten entirely but linger amongst the crevices and cracks of our city's broad shoulders.

Behind the nostalgic bustling neon lights, the reality would be more aligned with an anecdote of author Barry Gifford's life, writer of The Roy Stories and Wild at Heart. Gifford's parents are at the heart of our story; beautiful, charming, prosperous, and well-connected. At first glance, they appeared to be the epitome of the perfect family. Yet, beneath the exterior lies deception, abuse, and bigotry. Gifford's relationship with his father was distant, and he witnessed his mother being subjected to racism by strangers and family members. In the end, both parties gain something valuable from each other: Hell is cold in Chicago.

Roys' World is a captivating film that gives viewers a glimpse into the early life of Barry Gifford, portrayed through the character of Roy. By showcasing his childhood’s neighborhood, Gifford helps illustrate Roy's nature. Although there is no Barry Gifford in Roy's World, his strong connection with his mother and the impact of the city have left an enduring impression on his character. Like a peek into his mind, a window opened only upon Gifford, whispering intricate and perceptive insights into our windy city; Watch and gaze upon Chicago's rough and colorful past of the 1950s and 60s, along with a jazzy combination of archive footage and animation, some if not all, narrated by Academy Award Winner Willem Dafoe. When Gifford invites you to be in Roy's World, it's an opportunity that fellow Chicagoans should not miss.

On Saturday, August 5 at 7PM Central, visit Chicago Filmmakers for ROY’S WORLD.

For tickets: www.chicagofilmmakers.org/upcoming-screenings-and-events/

A review by Brendan Myers

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