“As relevant and timely as ever, MEDIUM COOL is a masterclass in using real-life footage for narrative propulsion and remains one of the most influential documentaries of all time.” - Rocco T. Thompson, Screen Rant
“A pioneering slice of cinematic history.” - Jeremy Heilman, Apollo Guide
"A great American document, one of the most important films of this political and social period." - Roger Ebert
Set against the backdrop of the 1968 Democratic National Convention in Chicago, MEDIUM COOL follows a television news cameraman caught between observing history and becoming part of it. Shot amid the real protests and police clashes, the film remains a startling meditation on media, power, and democracy.
Related Event: ACE IN THE HOLE
- Sun., Oct. 4, 4:00 p.m.
- Mon., Oct. 5, 5:45 p.m.
Democracy at Risk Double Feature
October 4–5, 2026
On the eve of the 2026 midterm elections, the Gene Siskel Film Center and the League of Women Voters of Chicago present two enduring American classics that ask timeless questions about journalism, democracy, and the uneasy relationship between truth and spectacle.
The Film Center is ADA accessible. This presentation will be projected without open captions. The theater is hearing-loop equipped. For accessibility requests, please email filmcenter@saic.edu